Evaluation of kinesiophobia and fall risk in patients with systemic sclerosis

ABSTRACT Evaluation of Kinesiophobia and Fall Risk in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Objective: This study aims to assess the level of kinesiophobia in patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis (SSc), to investigate its association with fall risk, and to evaluate its impact on quality of life, physical activity, and disease-specific clinical parameters. Methods: A total of 72 individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of SSc who presented to the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic of Çukurova University Medical Faculty were enrolled. Participants were assessed using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Fall Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), 10-Meter Walk Test (10-MWT), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Y-Balance Test, the Systemic Sclerosis Quality of Life Scale (SScQoL), and SSc-HAQ. Based on TSK scores, participants were categorized as having or not having kinesiophobia, and comparisons were made using appropriate statistical methods. Results: Findings: Kinesiophobia was detected in 36.1% of participants (TSK score > 37). BBS scores were significantly lower in these individuals, while fear of falling and physical inactivity rates were significantly higher (p<0.001). Additionally, positive correlations were observed between TSK scores and disease duration, modified Rodnan skin score (MRSS), sedimentation rate, disease activity score (VHAS), and quality of life scores.In the multivariate regression analysis, the only variable significantly associated with TKS scores was BBS scores. Conclusion: In individuals with systemic sclerosis, kinesiophobia represents a clinically significant phenomenon that not only influences psychological well-being but also contributes to functional limitations, balance impairment, and reduced quality of life. Incorporating the evaluation of kinesiophobia into clinical practice may support more comprehensive and individualized rehabilitation planning. Keywords: Systemic sclerosis, kinesiophobia, fall risk, balance, quality of life, physical activity