Date of Award
Fall 9-15-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Kinesiology (PhD)
Department
Kinesiology
Abstract
Individuals prescribed lower limb orthoses (IPLLO) represent a diverse clinical population with elevated risk for falls and associated injuries. While fall rates have been documented in subpopulations such as those with stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, little is known about injurious fall rates among the broader IPLLO community. This study investigates the incidence of injurious falls in IPLLO and examines whether self-reported mobility, pain interference, clinically assessed lower limb strength, sex, and age can predict fall risk. Using validated instruments—the Orthotic Patient Reported Outcome–Mobility (OPRO-M), PROMIS Pain Interference short form, and the Motricity Index—data were analyzed through logistic regression models to identify predictors of injurious falls. Findings suggest that impaired mobility, elevated pain interference, and reduced lower limb strength, alongside demographic factors of sex and age, contribute to higher odds of injurious falls. These results underscore the importance of early screening and targeted interventions to mitigate fall risk in this population.