A recent study in Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation warns those suffering from chronic kidney disease should be evaluated for problems in their gait. In addition, researchers said patients
would benefit from fall prevention programs. Research has noted patients with chronic kidney disease tend to develop gait abnormalities over time which can impair daily activities, decrease general quality of life and increase the risk of fall.

The kidneys are a critical part of the human body. Serving as filters for the blood where toxins and waste are removes and then expelled from the body through urine. Those who suffer from chronic kidney disease have suffered damage to their kidneys and they are no longer able to process this blood.

If they can, it is at greatly reduced levels and not enough for a healthy life. If the kidneys are not able to process blood, the toxins and wastes build up in the blood. Damage to organs follows and eventually death.

Researchers looked at 1,430 patients with a mean age of 60 years. After looking at their kidney health, specifically eGFR levels and the albumin to creatinine ratio. They also studied their global gait
and gate velocity and looked at rhythm, phases, variability, pace, tandem, turning and base of support.

Then they compared the data against the number of falls patients experienced the year before. Results showed lower eGFR and a higher albumin to creatinine ratio were related to lower global gait scores. Patients with lower gait scores had a connection between impaired kidney function and prevalence of falling.