The decline in postural balance has a negative impact on the performance of functional tasks in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

INTRODUCTION: An accurate assessment of balance problems is critical for decreasing the risk of falling in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Reliable diagnostic tools such as Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) are not feasible for the clinical setting. Therefore, the present study's aim was to assess the correlation between the clinical Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and CDP. METHODS: 20 male older adults with Parkinson's Disease (PD) were included in this study. Participants first executed the Sit-To-Stand (STS), Step/Quick turn (SQT), and Step Up and Over (SUO) tests on a Balance Master® force platform, followed by a clinical balance evaluation using the BESTest. RESULTS: Four outcomes of the CDP were negatively correlated with one or more BESTest domains or total BESTest score: STS sway velocity was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment (p = 0.02) and sensory orientation (p = 0.01) domains. SQT turn time was negatively correlated with biomechanical restriction (for turns to the left, p = 0.01, and right, p = 0.03, respectively), postural response (p = 0.01, p = 0.01), dynamic balance during gait (p = 0.007, p = 0.001), and total score (p = 0.02, p = 0.01). Step over time to the right in SUP was negatively correlated with the limits of the stability domain (p = 0.002) and total BESTest score (p = 0.020). SUO impact index was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment domain (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: This study shows that several BESTest domains are significantly correlated with CDP outcomes, demonstrating that the BESTest can be used as a more clinically feasible alternative for computerized posturography, without loss of information.

Importance of muscle strength to maintain mobility, but not to maintain postural balance in older women: Cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Acknowledging the relationship between postural control and muscle strength in lower limbs is important to find persons with high fall risk and to design fall prevention exercise programs. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the connection between knee muscle strength, semi-static postural balance, and functional mobility in irregularly active older women. METHODS: One hundred and ten older women aged 60 to 85 years underwent a semi-static postural balance test in a force and functional mobility measured by Timed Up & Go (TUG) with and without Cognitive Tasks (CT). Muscle strength of the knee was assessed by isokinetic dynamometry at 60°/s. RESULTS: A negative correlation between the functional mobility (TUG with and without CT) and the muscular strength of the knee was observed. Regarding semi-static balance, there was a low negative correlation with peak torque corrected for body weight of the extensors with the following variables with eyes open: Mean Velocity Dominant limb (D) (r = -0.19; p = 0.03); and anteroposterior range Non-Dominant limb (ND) (r = -0.19; p = 0.04); with eyes closed: mediolateral range ND limb (r = -0.21; p = 0.02) and Mean Velocity ND limb (r = -0.18; p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study found that better functional mobility was associated with greater muscle strength in the knee in elderly women. There were weak negative correlations between knee extensor strength and some measures of semi-static postural balance, suggesting that different motor control actions are required to maintain semi-static balance and mobility. In the case of semi-static balance, a lower level of muscle response is required than in functional mobility.

IMPACT OF DIABETIC NEUROPATHY ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND POSTURAL BALANCE IN BRAZILIAN OLDER ADULTS.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the impact of the Peripheral Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) on the postural and functional balance and quality of life of Brazilian older adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional study. Sixty older men and women (60-79 years) were divided into three groups: control, DM without and with PDN. The following parameters were evaluated: anthropometry; quality of life; postural balance (BESTest); functional balance in force plate (NeuroCom Balance). RESULTS: PDN group presented significant differences compared with the other groups, with the worst performance in quality of life than DM2 without PDN in: sensory functioning (p = 0.030); past and future (p = 0.036); death and dying (p = 0.035). Postural balance deficit in the total score (p = 0.025) and biomedical constraints section (p = 0.043) of the BESTest, compared with DM2 without PDN (p = 0.007). In the functional balance (Neurocom), PDN group presented a worse performance in the time spent on the left side (p = 0.030) than the control group. During step up over test, the control group performed the task faster than the group with PDN (p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: This study showed that neuropaths presented worse physical performance and postural balance deficits, sensorial limitations, affecting the daily tasks and, as a consequence, decreasing the quality of life in Brazilian older adults. Level of Evidence II, Cross-sectional observational study.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a influência da neuropatia diabética periférica (NDP) no equilíbrio postural, atividades funcionais e na qualidade de vida em idosos. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal. Avaliamos 60 homens e mulheres idosos (60-79 anos) divididos em três grupos: controle, DM sem e com NDP. Foram avaliados: antropometria; qualidade de vida; equilíbrio postural (BESTest); atividades funcionais pelo equilíbrio funcional na placa de força (NeuroCom Balance). RESULTADOS: Grupo NDP apresentou diferenças comparado a outros grupos, pior desempenho na qualidade de vida que o DM2 sem NDP em: funcionamento sensorial (p = 0,030); passado e futuro (p = 0,036); morte e morrer (p = 0,035). Déficit de equilíbrio postural no escore total (p = 0,025) e seção de restrições biomédicas (p = 0,043) do BESTest comparado ao DM2 sem NDP (p = 0,007). No equilíbrio funcional (Neurocom), o grupo NDP apresentou pior desempenho no tempo gasto no lado esquerdo (p = 0,030) comparado ao grupo controle. Durante a etapa de teste, o grupo controle executou a tarefa mais rapidamente que o grupo NDP (p = 0,004). CONCLUSÃO: Neuropatas apresentaram pior desempenho físico e déficits no equilíbrio postural, limitações sensoriais, afetando as tarefas diárias da doença e, consequentemente, diminuição da qualidade de vida em idosos brasileiros. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo observacional transversal.

Effects of treadmill training on gait of elders with Parkinson's disease: a literature review.

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in old age. Aging process for elders with Parkinson's disease can induce gait disturbances with more functional disabilities than for elders without the disease. Treadmill training as a therapy has resulted in notable effects on the gait of patients with Parkinson's disease and may be a resource for geriatric neurological rehabilitation. This review aimed to study the effects on gait after treadmill training in elderly patients with Parkinson's disease. The search was performed in the databases PubMed®, LILACS, PEDro and EMBASE, with the following keywords: "Parkinson's disease", "elderly", "treadmill training" and "gait evaluation". The quality of the studies included was assessed by PEDro Scale. Eleven studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eight studies were randomized, and only one did a follow-up. One can observe in this review that treadmill training with or without weight support (at least 20 minutes, two to three times a week, with progressive increase of loads, for minimum of 6 weeks) in elderly patients with the Parkinson's disease was effective to improve gait. In addition, both were considered safe (since some studies described the use of belts, even in unsupported training) and can be associated with therapies complementary to gait, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, visual cues or anodal transcranial direct current stimulation. Treadmill training in elderly patients with Parkinson's disease is an intervention that improves gait outcomes, but further studies are required for better proofs.

RELATIONSHIP OF FORCE PLATFORM WITH THE CLINICAL BALANCE EVALUATION SYSTEMS TEST IN OLDER ADULTS.

The aging process can alter the organization of postural control causing instability; literature shows several equipment and clinical tests whose purpose is to measure postural balance, involving different protocols and methodologies. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate postural balance during the task to walk over the force platform (turn and return) and its relationship with clinic balance test (BESTest) in older adults. METHODS: 60 older people of both sexes, aged 60 to 79 years, were tested in the force platform (NeuroCom Balance) and BESTest to evaluate postural balance. RESULTS: negative correlations were found when comparing domains of the clinical test with stabilometric parameters in time and velocity variables of the tests Step/Quick turn. The highest correlations were in the total score (time spent to perform the task - 0.41, and in the velocity left side - 0.33/right side - 0.43), as well as in the stability limit (time spent to perform the task left side - 0.34/right side - 0.37, and the equilibrium velocity left side - 0.37/right side - 0.43). CONCLUSION: There are slim correlations between the clinical test and force platform variables, showing that each test measures different parameters. Level of evidence II, Diagnostic study - investigating a diagnostic test.

O processo de envelhecimento pode alterar a organização do controle postural causando instabilidade. Na literatura há vários equipamentos e testes, envolvendo protocolos e metodologias diversas, com a finalidade de mensurar o equilíbrio corporal. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o equilíbrio postural e analisar a correlação entre os dados da plataforma de equilíbrio e do teste clínico (BESTest) em idosos. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 60 idosos de ambos os sexos, com idade de 60 a 79 anos. Para avaliação do equilíbrio postural foi utilizada a plataforma de força (NeuroCom Balance) e o BESTest. RESULTADOS: Correlações negativas foram encontradas quando comparados os domínios do teste clínico (BESTest) com parâmetros estabiliométricos nas variáveis tempo, velocidade e impacto dos testes Step/Quick turn. As maiores correlações foram no score total (tempo gasto para realizar a tarefa LE − 0,41, e na velocidade do equilíbrio LE − 0,33/LD − 0,43), assim como no limite de estabilidade (tempo gasto para realizar a tarefa LE − 0,34/LD − 0,37, e a velocidade do equilíbrio LE − 0,37/LD − 0,43). CONCLUSÃO: Há poucas e fracas correlações entre o teste clínico e as variáveis do teste Step/Quick turn da plataforma de força, mostrando que cada teste mede parâmetros diferentes. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos diagnósticos - investigação de exames para diagnóstico.

BONE MINERAL DENSITY AND BODY COMPOSITION IN ELDERLY RUNNERS: SIX-YEAR FOLLOW-UP.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition over a six-year period in elderly long-distance runners. METHODS: We analyzed the medical records of elderly athletes who were long-distance runners, were participants of the IOT-HCFMUSP Orthogeriatric Group, and had their BMD evaluated between 2001 and 2007; of these athletes, 11 were included in the study. Inclusion criteria: athletes should be long-distance runners, should not stop long-distance running during the six-year period, and should have undergone BMD and body composition evaluations. Body composition was evaluated using bone densitometry with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry with a Lunar-DPX device. RESULTS: Over the six-year period, body composition remained stable, but there was a significant increase only in the fat percentage (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Long-distance running may maintain BMD but may lead to an increase in the fat percentage in elderly runners. Level of Evidence II; Prognostic Study - Investigating the Effect of Patient Characteristics on Disease Outcome.

OBJETIVO: Acompanhar a densidade mineral óssea (DMO) e a composição corporal, ao longo de seis anos, em idosos corredores de longa distância. MÉTODOS: analisamos os prontuários médicos de um grupo de atletas idosos, corredores de longa distância, participantes do Grupo de Ortogeriatria do IOT-HC-FMUSP, e reunimos todos os atletas que tiveram a DMO avaliada no ano de 2001 e de 2007, sendo destes, 11 prontuários selecionados. Critérios de inclusão: ser corredor de longa distância; não parar de correr ao longo dos seis anos e ter os dois exames de DMO e composição corporal avaliados. A composição corporal foi avaliada por meio de densitometria óssea, com uma dupla energia de absorção de raios-X (DEXA), em um aparelho LUNAR-DPX. RESULTADOS: Ao longo dos seis anos, a composição corpórea se manteve estável, havendo apenas um aumento significante na gordura expressa em (%) (p=0,003). CONCLUSÃO: A corrida de longa distância parece conservar a DMO de idosos corredores, porém com aumento de gordura. Nível do Evidência II; Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de características de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

The decline in postural balance has a negative impact on the performance of functional tasks in individuals with Parkinson's Disease

Abstract Introduction An accurate assessment of balance problems is critical for decreasing the risk of falling in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Reliable diagnostic tools such as Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) are not feasible for the clinical setting. Therefore, the present study's aim was to assess the correlation between the clinical Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and CDP. Methods 20 male older adults with Parkinson's Disease (PD) were included in this study. Participants first executed the Sit-To-Stand (STS), Step/Quick turn (SQT), and Step Up and Over (SUO) tests on a Balance Master® force platform, followed by a clinical balance evaluation using the BESTest. Results Four outcomes of the CDP were negatively correlated with one or more BESTest domains or total BESTest score: STS sway velocity was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment (p = 0.02) and sensory orientation (p = 0.01) domains. SQT turn time was negatively correlated with biomechanical restriction (for turns to the left, p = 0.01, and right, p = 0.03, respectively), postural response (p = 0.01, p = 0.01), dynamic balance during gait (p = 0.007, p = 0.001), and total score (p = 0.02, p = 0.01). Step over time to the right in SUP was negatively correlated with the limits of the stability domain (p = 0.002) and total BESTest score (p = 0.020). SUO impact index was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment domain (p = 0.01). Conclusion This study shows that several BESTest domains are significantly correlated with CDP outcomes, demonstrating that the BESTest can be used as a more clinically feasible alternative for computerized posturography, without loss of information.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BONE MINERAL DENSITY AND BODY COMPOSITION IN ELDERLY.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition in healthy older adults at different skeletal sites. METHODS: We analyzed 87 medical records and BMD along with the body composition of men ranging from 60 to 87 years of age (mean: 68.5, standard deviation: 6.5). Inclusion criteria were normal BMD values (T-score greater than or equal to -1.0) and body mass index within normal or overweight range (18.5 to 29.5 kg/m2). Body composition was evaluated using bone densitometry with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in a LUNAR-DPX apparatus. RESULTS: Greater lean mass, fat mass, and soft tissue was associated with better BMD values in older adults, and higher age was associated with poorer BMD. CONCLUSION: Body composition (lean and fat masses and soft tissue) in older men is positively associated with BMD at all body sites (arms, legs, and trunk). Level of Evidence II; Prognostic studies - Investigating the effect of a patient characteristic on the outcome of disease.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre a DMO e a composição corporal em idosos hígidos em diferentes sítios esqueléticos. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados 87 prontuários e exames de DMO com composição corporal de idosos do sexo masculino com média de idade de 68,5 (6,5) variando de 60 a 87 anos. Os critérios de inclusão foram valores de DMO dentro do normal (T-score maior ou igual a -1,0); IMC dentro dos valores normais ou sobrepeso (18,5 a 29,5 kg/m2). A composição corporal foi avaliada por meio de densitometria óssea por dupla emissão de raios-X (DEXA) em aparelho LUNAR-DPX. RESULTADOS: Quanto maior as massas magra e gorda e os tecidos moles, melhor os valores da DMO dos idosos e quanto maior a idade, pior a qualidade da DMO. CONCLUSÃO: A composição corporal (massas magra e gorda e tecidos moles) de homens idosos associa-se positivamente na DMO em todos os locais do corpo (membros superiores, inferiores e tronco). Nível do Evidênci II; Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de caractetísticas de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

The effects of motor adaptation on ankle isokinetic assessments in older drivers.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to analyze the extent of motor adaptation in ankle plantar flexors and dorsiflexors among older drivers during clinical isokinetic testing. METHODS: One hundred older adults (70.4±5.7 years) participated in two bilateral ankle plantar flexor and dorsiflexor isokinetic assessments at 30°/sec. Peak torque (PTQ), PTQ adjusted for body weight (PTQ/BW), and total work (TW) were analyzed. RESULTS: On the dominant side, PTQ/BW and TW were significantly greater for the second plantar flexion test than were those for the first such test (p<0.001), whereas PTQ, PTQ/BW, and TW (p<0.001) were significantly greater for the second dorsiflexion test than were those for the first such test. On the non-dominant side, plantar flexion PTQ and TW were significantly lower for the second test than were those for the first test (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Older drivers demonstrated better performance with the dominant limb on the second test. The low variability in test execution showed the existence of a motor adaptation effect for the tested movements, despite the short recovery period between the assessments.

Effects of treadmill training on gait of elders with Parkinson's disease: a literature review / Efeitos do treinamento de marcha em esteira em idosos com doença de Parkinson: uma revisão da literatura

ABSTRACT Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in old age. Aging process for elders with Parkinson's disease can induce gait disturbances with more functional disabilities than for elders without the disease. Treadmill training as a therapy has resulted in notable effects on the gait of patients with Parkinson's disease and may be a resource for geriatric neurological rehabilitation. This review aimed to study the effects on gait after treadmill training in elderly patients with Parkinson's disease. The search was performed in the databases PubMed®, LILACS, PEDro and EMBASE, with the following keywords: "Parkinson's disease", "elderly", "treadmill training" and "gait evaluation". The quality of the studies included was assessed by PEDro Scale. Eleven studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eight studies were randomized, and only one did a follow-up. One can observe in this review that treadmill training with or without weight support (at least 20 minutes, two to three times a week, with progressive increase of loads, for minimum of 6 weeks) in elderly patients with the Parkinson's disease was effective to improve gait. In addition, both were considered safe (since some studies described the use of belts, even in unsupported training) and can be associated with therapies complementary to gait, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, visual cues or anodal transcranial direct current stimulation. Treadmill training in elderly patients with Parkinson's disease is an intervention that improves gait outcomes, but further studies are required for better proofs.

RESUMO A doença de Parkinson é o segundo distúrbio neurodegenerativo mais comum na velhice. O processo de envelhecimento de idosos com doença de Parkinson pode levar a distúrbios de marcha com mais incapacidades funcionais do que para idosos sem a doença. O treinamento em esteira como terapia pode resultar em efeitos notáveis na marcha de pacientes com Parkinson e ser um recurso para a reabilitação neurológica geriátrica. Esta revisão teve como objetivo estudar os efeitos da marcha após o treinamento em esteira na doença de Parkinson em idosos. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed®, LILACS, PEDro e EMBASE, com os seguintes descritores: "doença de Parkinson", "idosos", "treinamento em esteira" e "avaliação da marcha". A qualidade dos estudos incluídos foi avaliada pela escala de PEDro. Atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão 11 estudos. Oito estudos foram randomizados, e apenas um fez follow-up . Foi possível observar que treinamento em esteira com ou sem suporte de peso (por pelo menos 20 minutos, duas a três vezes por semana, com aumento progressivo de cargas, por, no mínimo, 6 semanas) em idosos com doença de Parkinson foi efetivo para melhorar a marcha. Além disso, ambos os treinamentos foram considerados seguros (pois alguns estudos relataram o uso de cintos, mesmo no treinamento sem suporte de peso) e podem ser associados a terapias complementares à marcha, como estimulação magnética transcraniana repetitiva, estímulos visuais ou estimulação transcraniana direta anódica. O treinamento em esteira em pacientes idosos com doença de Parkinson é uma intervenção que melhora os resultados da marcha, mas requer mais estudos para melhor comprovação.

Relationship of force platform with the clinical balance evaluation systems test in older adults / Relação da plataforma de força com o teste clínico de avaliação de equilíbrio (bestest) em idosos

ABSTRACT The aging process can alter the organization of postural control causing instability; literature shows several equipment and clinical tests whose purpose is to measure postural balance, involving different protocols and methodologies. Objective: To evaluate postural balance during the task to walk over the force platform (turn and return) and its relationship with clinic balance test (BESTest) in older adults. Methods: 60 older people of both sexes, aged 60 to 79 years, were tested in the force platform (NeuroCom Balance) and BESTest to evaluate postural balance. Results: negative correlations were found when comparing domains of the clinical test with stabilometric parameters in time and velocity variables of the tests Step/Quick turn. The highest correlations were in the total score (time spent to perform the task − 0.41, and in the velocity left side − 0.33/right side − 0.43), as well as in the stability limit (time spent to perform the task left side − 0.34/right side − 0.37, and the equilibrium velocity left side − 0.37/right side − 0.43). Conclusion: There are slim correlations between the clinical test and force platform variables, showing that each test measures different parameters. Level of evidence II, Diagnostic study - investigating a diagnostic test.

RESUMO O processo de envelhecimento pode alterar a organização do controle postural causando instabilidade. Na literatura há vários equipamentos e testes, envolvendo protocolos e metodologias diversas, com a finalidade de mensurar o equilíbrio corporal. Objetivo: Avaliar o equilíbrio postural e analisar a correlação entre os dados da plataforma de equilíbrio e do teste clínico (BESTest) em idosos. Métodos: Foram avaliados 60 idosos de ambos os sexos, com idade de 60 a 79 anos. Para avaliação do equilíbrio postural foi utilizada a plataforma de força (NeuroCom Balance) e o BESTest. Resultados: Correlações negativas foram encontradas quando comparados os domínios do teste clínico (BESTest) com parâmetros estabiliométricos nas variáveis tempo, velocidade e impacto dos testes Step/Quick turn. As maiores correlações foram no score total (tempo gasto para realizar a tarefa LE − 0,41, e na velocidade do equilíbrio LE − 0,33/LD − 0,43), assim como no limite de estabilidade (tempo gasto para realizar a tarefa LE − 0,34/LD − 0,37, e a velocidade do equilíbrio LE − 0,37/LD − 0,43). Conclusão: Há poucas e fracas correlações entre o teste clínico e as variáveis do teste Step/Quick turn da plataforma de força, mostrando que cada teste mede parâmetros diferentes. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos diagnósticos - investigação de exames para diagnóstico.

Impact of diabetic neuropathy on quality of life and postural balance in brazilian older adults / O impacto da neuropatia diabética na qualidade de vida e equilíbrio postural em idosos brasileiros

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the impact of the Peripheral Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) on the postural and functional balance and quality of life of Brazilian older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study. Sixty older men and women (60-79 years) were divided into three groups: control, DM without and with PDN. The following parameters were evaluated: anthropometry; quality of life; postural balance (BESTest); functional balance in force plate (NeuroCom Balance). Results: PDN group presented significant differences compared with the other groups, with the worst performance in quality of life than DM2 without PDN in: sensory functioning (p = 0.030); past and future (p = 0.036); death and dying (p = 0.035). Postural balance deficit in the total score (p = 0.025) and biomedical constraints section (p = 0.043) of the BESTest, compared with DM2 without PDN (p = 0.007). In the functional balance (Neurocom), PDN group presented a worse performance in the time spent on the left side (p = 0.030) than the control group. During step up over test, the control group performed the task faster than the group with PDN (p = 0.004). Conclusion: This study showed that neuropaths presented worse physical performance and postural balance deficits, sensorial limitations, affecting the daily tasks and, as a consequence, decreasing the quality of life in Brazilian older adults. Level of Evidence II, Cross-sectional observational study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a influência da neuropatia diabética periférica (NDP) no equilíbrio postural, atividades funcionais e na qualidade de vida em idosos. Métodos: Estudo transversal. Avaliamos 60 homens e mulheres idosos (60-79 anos) divididos em três grupos: controle, DM sem e com NDP. Foram avaliados: antropometria; qualidade de vida; equilíbrio postural (BESTest); atividades funcionais pelo equilíbrio funcional na placa de força (NeuroCom Balance). Resultados: Grupo NDP apresentou diferenças comparado a outros grupos, pior desempenho na qualidade de vida que o DM2 sem NDP em: funcionamento sensorial (p = 0,030); passado e futuro (p = 0,036); morte e morrer (p = 0,035). Déficit de equilíbrio postural no escore total (p = 0,025) e seção de restrições biomédicas (p = 0,043) do BESTest comparado ao DM2 sem NDP (p = 0,007). No equilíbrio funcional (Neurocom), o grupo NDP apresentou pior desempenho no tempo gasto no lado esquerdo (p = 0,030) comparado ao grupo controle. Durante a etapa de teste, o grupo controle executou a tarefa mais rapidamente que o grupo NDP (p = 0,004). Conclusão: Neuropatas apresentaram pior desempenho físico e déficits no equilíbrio postural, limitações sensoriais, afetando as tarefas diárias da doença e, consequentemente, diminuição da qualidade de vida em idosos brasileiros. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo observacional transversal.

Bone mineral density and body composition in elderly runners: six-year follow-up / Densidade mineral óssea e composição corporal de idosos corredores: follow-up de seis anos

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition over a six-year period in elderly long-distance runners. Methods: We analyzed the medical records of elderly athletes who were long-distance runners, were participants of the IOT-HCFMUSP Orthogeriatric Group, and had their BMD evaluated between 2001 and 2007; of these athletes, 11 were included in the study. Inclusion criteria: athletes should be long-distance runners, should not stop long-distance running during the six-year period, and should have undergone BMD and body composition evaluations. Body composition was evaluated using bone densitometry with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry with a Lunar-DPX device. Results: Over the six-year period, body composition remained stable, but there was a significant increase only in the fat percentage (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Long-distance running may maintain BMD but may lead to an increase in the fat percentage in elderly runners. Level of Evidence II; Prognostic Study - Investigating the Effect of Patient Characteristics on Disease Outcome.

RESUMO Objetivo: Acompanhar a densidade mineral óssea (DMO) e a composição corporal, ao longo de seis anos, em idosos corredores de longa distância. Métodos: analisamos os prontuários médicos de um grupo de atletas idosos, corredores de longa distância, participantes do Grupo de Ortogeriatria do IOT-HC-FMUSP, e reunimos todos os atletas que tiveram a DMO avaliada no ano de 2001 e de 2007, sendo destes, 11 prontuários selecionados. Critérios de inclusão: ser corredor de longa distância; não parar de correr ao longo dos seis anos e ter os dois exames de DMO e composição corporal avaliados. A composição corporal foi avaliada por meio de densitometria óssea, com uma dupla energia de absorção de raios-X (DEXA), em um aparelho LUNAR-DPX. Resultados: Ao longo dos seis anos, a composição corpórea se manteve estável, havendo apenas um aumento significante na gordura expressa em (%) (p=0,003). Conclusão: A corrida de longa distância parece conservar a DMO de idosos corredores, porém com aumento de gordura. Nível do Evidência II; Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de características de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

Equilíbrio postural e sarcopenia em idosos com e sem neuropatia diabética / Postural balance and sarcopenia in elderly with and without diabetic neuropathy

Introdução: A Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) é considerada um problema de saúde permanente e a Neuropatia Periférica (NP) é a complicação mais prevalente da doença. Seus sintomas e limitações ocasionam alterações das vias sensoriais e motoras, resposta neuromuscular anormal a distúrbios posturais, contribuindo para modificar o equilíbrio. A sarcopenia, perda involuntária da massa muscular, tem sido identificada como uma via comum associada à incapacidade física entre idosos. Objetivo: Analisar a produção científica acerca da abordagem do equilíbrio postural e da sarcopenia em idosos, na DM2 e na NP. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de revisão bibliográfica em 5 bases de dados nos últimos 10 anos, em inglês, português e espanhol, que abordaram idosos acima de 65 anos de ambos os sexos. Resultados: A grande variedade de testes e intervenções usadas identifica estágios diversos relacionados ao DM, à NP e à sarcopenia em idosos. Foram encontradas 317 referências sobre Equilíbrio Postural, DM e NP, foram inclusos seis artigos para Equilíbrio Postural/DM2 e 16 para Equilíbrio Postural/NP. Das 142 referências sobre sarcopenia, DM2 e NP, foram inclusos quatro sobre sarcopenia/DM2; não foi incluído nenhum artigo para Sarcopenia/NP. Conclusão: A DM2 tem grande influência nos parâmetros posturais e declínio acelerado da massa muscular e a NP é um fator determinante para causas de distúrbios posturais. Os resultados poderão ser ainda mais significativos se em estudos futuros forem analisadas a influência da sarcopenia com NP em idosos, pois não foi encontrado nenhum artigo que abordasse esse tema especificamente. (AU)

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM2) is considered a permanent health problem and Peripheral Neuropathy (NP) is the most prevalent complication of the disease. Its symptoms and limitations cause alterations of the sensorial and motor routes, abnormal neuromuscular response to postural disorders, contributing to modify the balance. Sarcopenia, involuntary loss of muscle mass, has been identified as a common pathway associated with physical disability among the elderly. Objective: To analyze the scientific production about the approach of postural balance and sarcopenia in the elderly, DM2 and NP. Methods: A bibliographic review study was carried out in 5 databases in the last 10 years, in English, Portuguese and Spanish, which addressed the elderly over 65 years of both sexes. Results: The wide variety of tests and interventions used identify the various stages related to DM, NP and sarcopenia in the elderly. There were 317 references on Postural Equilibrium, DM and NP, six articles were included for Postural Equilibrium/DM2 and 16 for Postural Equilibrium/NP. Of the 142 references on Sarcopenia, DM2 and NP, four were included on Sarcopenia/DM2; no article was included for Sarcopenia/NP. Conclusion: DM2 has a great influence on postural parameters and accelerated decline in muscle mass, and NP is a determining factor for the causes of postural disorders. The results may be even more significant if the influence of sarcopenia with NP in the elderly is analyzed in future studies, since no article was found that specifically addressed this issue. (AU)

Qualidade de vida de idosos residentes em instituições privadas / Quality of living of elderly residents of private institutions

Objetivo: avaliar a qualidade de vida de idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência de alto padrão econômico. Método: estudo quantitativo, transversal, realizado com 101 idosos de quatro instituições privadas. Os dados foram coletados com o uso do instrumento World Health Organization Quality of Life Group ­ Old, armazenados no Microsoft Excel e submetidos à estatística descritiva (média, desvio padrão, coeficiente de variação, valores máximos e mínimos e amplitude), além de frequências absoluta e relativa e apresentados em forma de tabela e figura. Resultados: a média do domínio do WHOQOL-OLD da faceta funcionamento do sensório é de 76,67; autonomia, 61,26; atividades passadas, presentes e futuras, 64,17; participação social, 62,81, morte e morrer, 78,53; intimidade, 58,97 e o escore total é de 67,07. Conclusão: a percepção da qualidade de vida dos residentes das instituições de longa permanência de alto padrão econômico na cidade de São Paulo é satisfatória. O pior domínio de análise é o da intimidade e o melhor é morte e morrer. Este trabalho contribui para que possa ser compreendida a maneira como os idosos investigados se percebem nos domínios da QV e em quais destes é preciso implementar melhorias.(AU)

Relationship between bone mineral density and body composition in elderly / Relação entre a densidade mineral óssea e a composição corporal em idosos

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the association between bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition in healthy older adults at different skeletal sites. Methods: We analyzed 87 medical records and BMD along with the body composition of men ranging from 60 to 87 years of age (mean: 68.5, standard deviation: 6.5). Inclusion criteria were normal BMD values (T-score greater than or equal to -1.0) and body mass index within normal or overweight range (18.5 to 29.5 kg/m2). Body composition was evaluated using bone densitometry with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in a LUNAR-DPX apparatus. Results: Greater lean mass, fat mass, and soft tissue was associated with better BMD values in older adults, and higher age was associated with poorer BMD. Conclusion: Body composition (lean and fat masses and soft tissue) in older men is positively associated with BMD at all body sites (arms, legs, and trunk). Level of Evidence II; Prognostic studies - Investigating the effect of a patient characteristic on the outcome of disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre a DMO e a composição corporal em idosos hígidos em diferentes sítios esqueléticos. Métodos: Foram analisados 87 prontuários e exames de DMO com composição corporal de idosos do sexo masculino com média de idade de 68,5 (6,5) variando de 60 a 87 anos. Os critérios de inclusão foram valores de DMO dentro do normal (T-score maior ou igual a -1,0); IMC dentro dos valores normais ou sobrepeso (18,5 a 29,5 kg/m2). A composição corporal foi avaliada por meio de densitometria óssea por dupla emissão de raios-X (DEXA) em aparelho LUNAR-DPX. Resultados: Quanto maior as massas magra e gorda e os tecidos moles, melhor os valores da DMO dos idosos e quanto maior a idade, pior a qualidade da DMO. Conclusão: A composição corporal (massas magra e gorda e tecidos moles) de homens idosos associa-se positivamente na DMO em todos os locais do corpo (membros superiores, inferiores e tronco). Nível do Evidênci II; Estudos prognósticos - Investigação do efeito de caractetísticas de um paciente sobre o desfecho da doença.

The effects of motor adaptation on ankle isokinetic assessments in older drivers

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to analyze the extent of motor adaptation in ankle plantar flexors and dorsiflexors among older drivers during clinical isokinetic testing. METHODS: One hundred older adults (70.4±5.7 years) participated in two bilateral ankle plantar flexor and dorsiflexor isokinetic assessments at 30°/sec. Peak torque (PTQ), PTQ adjusted for body weight (PTQ/BW), and total work (TW) were analyzed. RESULTS: On the dominant side, PTQ/BW and TW were significantly greater for the second plantar flexion test than were those for the first such test (p<0.001), whereas PTQ, PTQ/BW, and TW (p<0.001) were significantly greater for the second dorsiflexion test than were those for the first such test. On the non-dominant side, plantar flexion PTQ and TW were significantly lower for the second test than were those for the first test (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Older drivers demonstrated better performance with the dominant limb on the second test. The low variability in test execution showed the existence of a motor adaptation effect for the tested movements, despite the short recovery period between the assessments.