AAPM Series
Falls and Fractures in Older Post-Stroke Patients with Spasticity: Consequences and Drug Treatment Considerations
Falling is a common complication of stroke, particularly in patients with symptomatic hemiparesis and spasticity.3 It is the most common cause of injury among stroke patients in the acute care and home settings.3,4 Falls resulting in injuries are a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, immobility, and health care expenditures, particularly among the elderly.5 It is estimated that 84% of bone fractures sustained by stroke patients are caused by falls.6 The risk of hip fracture in stroke patients is fourfold that of the general population.7 A report conducted by Ramnemark and colleagues7 fou...
