Posturography assessment of balance and mobility in chronic stroke: posturography variables associated with functional performance

Mohammad A. ALMohiza, Ravi Shankar Reddy

Introduction Postural instability is a major contributor to impaired mobility and increased fall risk in individuals with chronic stroke. While clinical balance assessments are widely used, they may not fully capture underlying postural control deficits. This study aimed to examine the relationship between posturographic measures and clinical balance and mobility outcomes, and to determine the independent associations between posturographic variables and functional performance in chronic stroke. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 56 ambulatory individuals with chronic stroke underwent static posturographic assessment under eyes-open, eyes-closed, and foam-surface conditions. Key parameters included the center-of-pressure path length, sway velocity, sway area, and mediolateral displacement. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), 10-Meter Walk Test, Five Times Sit-to-Stand (FTSTS), Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Barthel Index. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to examine associations and identify variables independently associated with functional performance. Results Posturographic measures significantly deteriorated under sensory-challenged conditions ( p < 0.001). Strong correlations were observed between sway velocity (eyes closed) and BBS ( r = −0.60, p < 0.001) and TUG ( r = 0.58, p < 0.001). Fallers demonstrated significantly poorer balance and mobility outcomes compared to non-fallers ( p < 0.001). Regression analysis identified sway velocity (β = 0.38 for TUG; β = −0.40 for BBS) and mediolateral sway (β = 0.34; β = −0.36) as significant, independently associated variables of functional performance. Discussion Posturographic measures are strongly associated with clinical balance and mobility outcomes and serve as significant independent variables of functional performance in individuals with chronic stroke. These findings highlight the clinical utility of posturography as an objective tool for functional assessment and support its integration into rehabilitation planning to improve balance and mobility outcomes.