Correlation between posture, balance control, and peripheral muscle function in adults with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Background: In addition to pulmonary involvement, adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at higher risk of developing skeletal muscle dysfunction, nutritional depletion, and bone and joint disease. Objective: This study aimed to assess the correlation between posture, balance, and peripheral muscle function in adults with CF. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 14 clinically stable patients who were subjected to postural assessment (photogrammetry), stabilometry, and peripheral muscle function. Results: Comparing the right and left sides of the body, there were significant differences for the following variables: horizontal and vertical head alignments; heel angle; and vertical alignment of the trunk (p < 0.001 for all). Variables that represent the head-trunk position and the position of the lower limbs showed correlations with stabilometric parameters. The strongest correlation was observed between the vertical alignment of the body and the medial-lateral range (ρ = −0.73; p = 0.002). We also noted a significant correlation between the quadriceps muscle strength and the medial lateral range (ρ = −0.69; p = 0.003). Conclusions: In adults with CF, it is possible that the imbalance occurs by both distortion of the head–trunk relationship and lower extremity abnormalities as noted by the reduced quadriceps muscle strength.