Lower extremity fractures: relationship to reaction time and coordination time.

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible relationship between delayed reaction time and slow coordination time as a contributing factor to lower extremity fracture. A simple reaction time tester and hand coordination tester were used to assess the relative times of reaction and coordination. Subjects were also questioned concerning their daily activity levels. A definite relationship was observed to exist between the times recorded and lower extremity fractures: subjects with lower extremity fractures exhibited delayed reaction times and longer coordination times. Moreover, shorter reaction times and coordination times were seen in those subjects who reported higher activity levels. Statistical analysis was performed on selected data which show an association of fracture with reaction time.