Risk of falling in patients with unilateral discogenic sciatica

Background: Unilateral Discogenic Sciatica is low back pain radiating into one limb, in addition to one or more positive neurological signs. This pain may cause loss of function and reduce quality of life and working capability. Objective: This study was performed to assess the risk of falling in patients with unilateral discogenic sciatica. Methods: Sixty subjects participated in the study (30 patients with unilateral discogenic sciatica and 30 healthy controls). All participants undergone balance assessment using PROKIN system to evaluate static and dynamic balance. The risk of falling was evaluated via Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Results: There was significant improvement in static balance variable (sway range forward backward and mediolateral) and significant decrease in dynamic balance variable (limit of stability LOS) in the study group in comparison with the control group (P <0.05). There was substantial positive correlation between BBS score and dynamic balance (LOS) in patients with unilateral discogenic sciatica, whereas, the correlation between BBS score and static balance (sway range forward backward and mediolateral) was non-significant. Conclusion: Sciatica affects both static as well as dynamic balance and so increases the risk of falling in patients with unilateral discogenic sciatica.