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Leg ulcers

Risk of falling for people with venous leg ulcers: a literature review

02 April 2017
Review
02 April 2017
Volume 1 · Issue 2

Abstract

Introduction:

Little is known about the risk of falling for people with venous leg ulcers (VLUs), and this subject has not been considered in UK populations. Many problems associated with living with VLUs are also known risk factors for sustaining a fall. This literature review considered the question: ‘Do community-dwelling older adults with VLUs have different outcomes in physical function measures used to assess the risk of falling compared with those without VLUs?’

Method:

A review of quantitative literature relating to measures of physical function in people with and without VLUs was undertaken, the development of which was guided by the PRISMA guidelines.

Findings:

People with VLUs have poorer scores in measures of physical function than in people without. Reliability of studies included in the review was hampered by small sample sizes and threats to internal validity and generalisability.

Conclusions:

People with VLUs may be at a greater risk of falling owing to limitations in balance and mobility. Improving physical function may result in ulcer healing and better quality of life. Reducing falls risk may also lead to improved patient safety and enhanced care outcomes. Further research is needed to better understand the problem.

Little is known about the risk of falling for people with venous leg ulcers (VLUs). With an understanding of the risk factors for falling and the problems associated with VLUs, it could be postulated that this group is at significant risk of falling. This article details a literature review and discusses the findings. It considers the question: ‘Do community-dwelling older adults with VLUs have different outcomes in physical function measures used to assess the risk of falling compared with those without VLUs?’

It is estimated that 30% of people over the age of 65 years fall annually, and this figure rises to 50% in people over the age of 80 years.1,2 Falls cost the NHS £2.3 billion annually,2 which is a significant sum given the fiscal climate of today's health service.

There are further cost implications to be considered, as falls are associated with a reduced quality of life,3 and can result in distress, injury, pain, fear, and loss of independence and mortality.1,2 In addition, falls are a common precipitating factor for people moving into care.4 Thus, there are considerable personal and societal costs associated with falling. As such, the identification of individuals at the risk of falling is paramount.

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venous leg ulcers
falls
mobility limitation
patient safety
risk assessment