Evaluation of Gait in Albanian β-thalassemia Patients

Abstract One of the most prevalent genetic diseases in the world is beta thalassemia. Hemoglobin synthesis is decreased by the blood condition beta thalassemia. Patients with thalassemia exhibit a range of bone problems, including as spinal deformities, osteopenia and osteoporosis, as well as growth failure. This study’s main goal was to evaluate gait and balance in Albanian β-thalassemia patients. In this study, 18 participants aged 17 to 29 years old (5 males and 13 females) from three distinct epidemiological cities in Albania took part. Gait analysis was performed using “T&T medilogic medizintechnik gmbh” wi-fi insoles. “General Gait Parameters”, results of the “Effective Foot Length, left [%]” parameter mean results [67.59%], reveals approx a 2% difference compared with the relative normative mean [69.7%]. Also, “Effective Foot Length, left [%]” mean results [65.49%], reveals approximately a 3.5% difference compared with the relative normative mean [69.7%]. “General Gait Parameters”, data comparisons revealed statistically significant differences between “is” and “nom.” measurements for the following variables: “Rel Double Step Length”, “Double Step Duration”, “Effective Foot Length Right” and “Width Of Gait Right” (p<0.005). Results for the rest of the variables shwed a not statistically significant difference. The aim of the study was to assess the gait parameter in Albanian individuals with thalassemia. Based on the result of the “General Gait Parameters”, data reveal a difference in the % of the average gait line which is related to effective distribution in the insole length showing a specific indication of insecure gait. According to the findings, gait issues are a significant health issue for beta thalassemia patients which are most likely caused by disease-related side-effects such high calcium levels after blood transfusions, inactivity caused by insufficient muscle mass, and all other health-related disease conditions. It is advised that the gait analysis exam to be included in their regular health check-ups. Future studies should be conducted involving larger ß-thalassemia patients take into account the unique state of this category to better evaluate the gait problems related with general static and dynamic posture problems. Clinicians’ health specialists and rehabilitation experts when planning B-Thal rehabilitation programs sholud use gait analysis exam as a regular health check-up.