Walking Balance in Individuals with Acromegaly

Abstract

Introduction: Acromegaly is characterized by growth hormone excess. It adversely affects the patients’ musculoskeletal and neural systems, consequently impairing physical function. This study explored the walking balance deficits in persons with acromegaly (PWA) in comparison to persons with non-GH-secreting pituitary adenoma (PNA). Methods: Data (n=8 for each group) was collected using the OptiTrack MoCap and AMTI Forceplate systems. Paired sample t-tests, 2-way repeated ANOVA, and statistical parametric mapping were used to compare outcomes between the groups. Results: PWA showed longer TUG completion time, but no significant difference in DGI. PWA’s supporting limb generated less hip abductor energy when crossing whereas PNA generated more; PWA’s crossing limb exhibited less reduction of knee extensor energy absorption whereas PNA exhibited more reduction. However, these differences did not reach statistical significance (p=0.32 and 0.27). Conclusion: Our study revealed a trend of PWA adopting a different adaptation strategy during obstructed walking.