Abstract

Balance and coordination are important elements of most activities of daily living. Previous Studies have shown that structural defect and deformities develop in the chest wall due to decreased thoracal mobility in asthmatic patients. The biomechanics of the thoracic cage may effect the body’s global mechanics. This situation may cause balance disorder that leads a disorientation in coordination. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare the balance and coordination between asthmatic patients and healthy individuals.

Forty-nine asthma patients(study group) diagnosed according to GINA at Pamukkale
University, Medical Faculty, Department of Pulmonary Disease, were included in the study
and fifty-one healthy subjects participated as controls. Dynamic balance was assessed with Kinestetic Ability Trainer(SportKAT550). Coordination ability was assesed with finger nose test and toe tapping test.

The average age of study group was 35,3±10,3 years; the avarage age of control group was 36,17±8,47 years(p>0,05).  When the results belonging to the groups were compared, there were significant difference in SportKAT550 Total dynamic score(p=0,001), finger nose test(p=0,007) and toe tapping test(p=0,003) between the groups.

The results of our study showed that there as a decrease in the balance and coordination capabilities of asthmatic patients. We think that factors affecting balance and coordination in asthmatic patients should be searched in further studies. Therefore, balance and coordination should be evaluated in asthmatic patients and added balance and coordination exercises in pulmonary rehabilitation programs.