Falls and injuries resulting from falls among patients with parkinsonism: a reappraisal

abstract

BACKGROUND: In 2002 we ascertained the frequency and predictors of falling and injuries among our parkinsonian patients.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate changes in falls and injuries among our parkinsonian patients between 2002 and 2021.
METHODS: A survey collected information about falls, injuries, and related health care from patients treated at our center in 2019 and 2020 (N = 2731). Outcomes included falls, fractures, injuries, and related health services. Explanatory variables included sex, age, disease duration, atypical parkinsonism, and dementia. Results were compared to the 2002 survey.
RESULTS: 1615 surveys were analyzed. There were 54.3% fallers; 62.7% sustained injuries, 31.1% fractures; 59.8% of injuries required health services. Dementia and atypical parkinsonism predicted falling. Female sex, atypical parkinsonism, and dementia predicted fracture. 26% fewer injuries required health services compared to 2002.
CONCLUSIONS: Proportion of fallers and fractures have not changed in our Center since 2002. Fewer injuries required health services.

Link to Article

10.1002/mdc3.70510

authors

Parashos, Sotirios A., MD, PhD HealthPartners Author

Doxey, S. A. HealthPartners Author

McManus, L. L. HealthPartners Author

Hardzinski, J. HealthPartners Author

Hanson, Leah R., PhD HealthPartners Author

Johnson, J. C. HealthPartners Author

Nance, Martha A., MD HealthPartners Author

publication date

2026

published in

Movement disorders clinical practice Journal