Falls are the cause of a lot of grief for many. Whether from bruises, strains, fractures or other injuries, falling can quickly take away our comfort and independence. For those of us with cancer, falls can add yet another complication to a difficult journey.
So it's important to note that the very treatments we use to combat our cancers can predispose us to falls.
Researchers decided to look at the impact peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy has on the risk of falls. Medications they evaluated were ones that are commonly used for lung cancer - Taxol (paclitaxel), Taxotere (docetaxel), Erbitux (oxaliplatin) and Platinol (cisplatin). Using a questionnaire they were able to determine risk factors for falls in people with chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy. These included:
- The use of "taxane" chemotherapy medications - namely Taxol (paclitaxel) and Taxotere (docetaxel) in this study
- Symptoms of muscle weakness
- Symptoms of loss of balance
- Symptoms that interfere with walking or driving
Tips for Preventing Falls:
- Use a cane or a walker if needed. Make sure you know how to use these properly
- Use handrails
- Use rails in baths and showers
- Use night-lights
- Avoid walking around in dark or dimly lit areas
- Wear good shoes and avoid high heels
- Don't leave piles on the floors or on staircases
- Watch out for slippery surfaces, whether a wet bathroom floor, recently washed floors, or wet sidewalks
- Remove throw rugs (or make sure they are well secured to the floor)
Further Reading:
Source:
Tofhagen, C., Overcash, J., and K. Kip. Falls in persons with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2012. 20(3):583-589.
