Which balance test best predicts fall risk in Parkinson's disease
Which Tools Better Predict Fall Risk in Parkinson's Disease: A Comparative Study of Objective, Self-Reported, and Functional Balance Assessment
This project will test an objective balance platform, a functional balance test, and a self-report questionnaire to see which best predicts falls in people with mild-to-moderate Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Bezmialem Vakif University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Eyup) |
| Trial ID | NCT07148700 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study enrolls people with Parkinson's disease in Hoehn and Yahr stages 1–3 and collects fall frequency using a fall diary. Participants complete three balance assessments: the Biodex Balance System (objective platform measures), the Mini-BESTest (functional performance), and the FES-I (self-reported balance confidence). The study compares how well each tool, alone or in combination, relates to recorded falls. Findings aim to identify practical assessment approaches that predict fall risk and could guide early preventive care.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 40–80 with Parkinson's disease at Hoehn and Yahr stages 1–3 who are on stable dopaminergic therapy, have MMSE scores >24, and can attend clinic visits are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with advanced disease (Hoehn and Yahr >3), other neurologic disorders, severe sensory or cardiopulmonary comorbidities, significant cognitive or communication impairments, or recent rehabilitation are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, clinicians could better identify people with PD who are at high risk of falling and target fall-prevention strategies earlier.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work using the Mini-BESTest and FES-I has shown some predictive value for falls, while objective platform measures like the Biodex have produced mixed but promising results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 40 and 80 years old * Receiving stable dopaminergic treatment * No other neurological disorders besides PD * A Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score \>24 * Hoehn and Yahr stage between 1-3 * Voluntarily agreed to participate in the study after receiving detailed information Exclusion Criteria: Presence of visual, hearing impairments, cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases that could affect study outcomes * Having mental or physical impairments severe enough to hinder communication * Clinically unstable condition within the past month * Participation in a rehabilitation program within the last six months
Where this trial is running
Istanbul, Eyup
- Bezmialem Vakif University — Istanbul, Eyup, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ayca Arslanturk-Yildirim, Msc
- Email: ayca.arslanturk@bezmialem.edu.tr
- Phone: +905312891352
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.