Objective: The aim of this systematic review is to assess imbalance and falls in patients with HSP through a systematic and comprehensive evaluation of the literature.
Background: HSP are a group of neurodegenerative disorders involving the corticospinal tracts, characterized by distinct spasticity and weakness of the lower extremities.
Method: The research strategy was conducted across six databases, including Embase, LILACS, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, LIVIVO, and Web of Science. Gray literature was also consulted through Google Scholar and ProQuest. Two independent reviewers analyzed potentially eligible studies based on the following criteria: studies involving the HSP population of any age group, investigating imbalance and falls, allowing comparisons with healthy individuals. There were no language or publication date restrictions. Additionally, two reviewers independently extracted data regarding the characteristics of the selected studies. Bias risk was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool.
Results: Following the database searches, 1739 references were identified, of which 11 articles were selected for synthesis. All these articles addressed the theme related to imbalance and falls in patients with HSP. Disease progression stood out and played a significant role in deteriorating balance control, resulting in a substantial increase in the likelihood of falls. It was observed that patients experience an increased fear of falling, which, in turn, negatively impacts overall well-being, contributing to injuries and other complications. Bias risk showed 9 studies with low risk and 2 with moderate risk.
Conclusion: The findings of this research emphasize the importance of dedicating specific attention to these individuals, highlighting the need to understand the disease progression, focusing on guiding intervention and treatment strategies, going beyond physical issues, and considering the emotional and well-being aspects of patients.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
G. Dos Santos, M. Severiano, A. Ferraz, C. de Araújo, H. Teive, B. Zeigelboim. Imbalance and falls in individuals with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2025; 40 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/imbalance-and-falls-in-individuals-with-hereditary-spastic-paraplegia/. Accessed October 15, 2026.« Back to 2025 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/imbalance-and-falls-in-individuals-with-hereditary-spastic-paraplegia/