Name of the Procedure:

Patient (or caregiver) queried about falls in Parkinson's Disease (Prkns) and Diabetic Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy (DSP). Common terms: Falls Assessment in Parkinson's Disease, DSP Fall Risk Evaluation.

Summary

This assessment involves evaluating the risk and causes of falls in patients diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease (PD) or Diabetic Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy (DSP). It aims to identify risks and provide strategies to minimize falls.

Purpose

Medical Condition or Problem

• Parkinson's Disease
• Diabetic Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy ##### Goals or Expected Outcomes
• Identify fall risk factors
• Develop a prevention plan
• Enhance patient safety and mobility

Indications

• History of falls or near falls
• Difficulty with balance or walking
• Episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness
• Diagnosed with PD or DSP

Preparation

• Wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear.
• Bring a list of all medications currently taken.
• No specific fasting or diagnostic tests required.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Consultation: Discussion of fall history and symptoms.
2. Physical Examination: Balance tests, walking assessments, and strength evaluations.
3. Questionnaires: Complete forms on daily activities, medication effects, and fall history.
4. Use of Equipment: Balance platforms, gait analysis tools, and potential use of wearable sensors.
5. Review of Findings: Analysis of the assessments to formulate a fall prevention plan.

Duration

Typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized neurology or endocrinology office.

Personnel

• Primary care physician or neurologist
• Physical therapist
• Occupational therapist

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks, primarily associated with functional tests that might induce mild discomfort or momentary imbalance.

Benefits

• Improved understanding of fall risks
• Customized fall prevention strategies
• Enhanced safety and reduced chance of fall-related injuries
• Potential improvement in mobility and quality of life

Recovery

• No recovery needed, as this is a non-invasive assessment.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.

Alternatives

• Use of home safety assessments by a professional
• Prescription of assistive devices without detailed assessment ##### Pros and Cons
• Pros of Detailed Assessment: Tailored interventions, higher accuracy in evaluating risk factors.
• Cons of Detailed Assessment: Requires time and multiple healthcare visits.

Patient Experience

Patients might experience increased confidence through understanding their fall risks and learning specific strategies to manage them. These assessments are typically painless, though some physical evaluations might momentarily challenge balance. Healthcare providers will offer support and make comfort a priority throughout the procedure.