Frequency, characteristics, and consequences of falls in multiple sclerosis: findings from a cohort study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate falls rate and the characteristics of falls (including fall-related injuries) in a multiple sclerosis (MS) cohort.

Design: As part of a study evaluating falls risk, a cohort of 150 participants prospectively recorded actual and near fall events using a daily diary over 3 months, as well as the circumstances of each fall including related injuries.

Setting: Community setting.

Participants: A population-based sample of people (N=150) with a confirmed diagnosis of MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale, 3.5-6.5) was recruited via a patient-centered longitudinal study database of disease course in people with MS.

Interventions: Not applicable.

Main outcome measures: Rate of actual and near falls, circumstances and consequences of falls (including rates and type of injury plus follow-up care).

Results: The response rate for the falls diary was 92.7%. A total of 672 actual falls and 3785 near falls were recorded, with a moderate correlation between the numbers of actual and near falls per person (ρ=.474; 95% confidence interval, .34-.59). Men recorded significantly more falls than women. Falls were associated with a range of activities, although 27.6% occurred during general mobility activities such as walking, turning, and moving between positions. Injuries occurred in 11.1% of falls, with 6 individuals requiring medical attention.

Conclusions: People with MS experience high numbers of falls, with associated injuries. Falls occur during a wide range of activities, reflecting their potential impact on daily life. Evaluating the characteristics of individuals who experience frequent near falls but few actual falls may be valuable for research and clinical practice.

Keywords: Accidental falls; Multiple sclerosis; Rehabilitation; Risk factors.