Rate of Torque Development and Torque Steadiness of the Lower Limb and Future Falls Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults Without Previous Falls: A Longitudinal 1-Year Study.

The objective was to investigate the association between rate of torque development (RTD) and torque steadiness (TS) of the lower limb and the occurrence of prospective falls in community-dwelling older adults without falls in the previous year. One hundred older adults performed the tests to obtain the RTD and TS of the hip, knee, and ankle. New episodes of falls were monitored through telephone contact for a prospective period of 12 months. The association of RTD and TS with the occurrence of prospective falls was verified by multiple logistic regression adjusted for confounding variables. There was no association between RTD of hip, knee, and ankle and prospective falls. Only the TS at 50% of the peak torque of the hip flexors was associated with the occurrence of future falls (p = .023). Identifying modifiable risk factors for the first fall in older adults is essential for the development of adequate prevention programs.

Physical activity components associated with gait parameters in community-dwelling older adults.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between components of physical activity and spatiotemporal gait parameters in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 134 independent community-dwelling older adults. A questionnaire was applied to obtain information related to the components of physical activity (frequency, duration, modality, and history of physical activity in the life course) and the GAITRite System was used to quantify gait parameters. Three MANOVA models adjusted for potential confounders were conducted to identify associations between components of physical activity (predictors) and gait performance (outcome). RESULTS: Higher weekly frequency but not daily hours of physical activity and sports practice (tennis, boxing, football, volleyball, and tai chi) were significantly associated with better gait performance, specifically gait speed and stride length. CONCLUSION: Understanding the most effective components of physical activity to maintain functional capacity and independence in community-dwelling older adults, allowing for active aging, is essential for formulating more effective strategies.

Accuracy of the step test to evaluate lower limb muscle strength in community-dwelling older women.

OBJECTIVE: to investigate the accuracy of the step test (ST) to evaluate total lower limb muscle strength (LLMS) in older women. DESIGN: observational cross-sectional study. METHODS: 119 community-dwelling older women were submitted to the ST and LLMS evaluation (isometric peak torque of eight muscle groups of the dominant lower limb). The capacity of the ST to discriminate older women with reduced LLMS was measured using ROC curve, followed by the posttest probability (PoTP) calculation. RESULTS: a ST score of 0.24 cm per cm of participant's height presents a sensitivity of 63.3%, specificity of 77%; enhances the PoTP from 48% to 72% for positive test and decreases the PoTP from 48% to 31% for negative test. CONCLUSION: the ST may complement the clinical screening of reduced LLMS in older women, given that it is a simple and quick low-cost test and allows the evaluation of each lower limb separately.

Kinematic gait parameters for older adults with Parkinson's disease during street crossing simulation.

Safe street crossing is important for older adults' social inclusion. We assessed gait kinematic adaptation under different simulated street crossing conditions in older adults with Parkinson's disease (PD) and made comparisons with older adults without PD to understand how PD interferes in outdoor task performance, helping in the development of strategies to reduce road traffic accident risk. In 20 older adults without PD (control group - CG) and 20 with PD (GPD), we assessed usual gait (C1), gait during street crossing simulation (C2), and gait during reduced-time street crossing simulation (C3). Velocity, step length, and step, swing, stance, and double support time were analyzed. Spatiotemporal differences in gait between groups and conditions were analyzed. The GPD walked 16% slower in C1 and 12% slower in C2 and C3 than the CG. GPD also took 11% shorter steps in C1 and 9.5% shorter steps in C2. The double support time was 8.5% greater in C1. In intragroup comparisons, there were significant differences in all gait conditions. The CG showed increased velocity (C2 15% > C1; C3 13% > C2; C3 26% > C1), step length (C2 8% > C1; C3 5% > C2; C3 13% > C1), and swing time (C2 2% > C1; C3 3.7% > C2; C3 6% > C1), and decreased step time (C2 7.5% < C1; C3 8% < C2; C3 15% < C1), stance time (C2 1.3% < C1; C3 2.5% < C2; C3 3.6% < C1), and double support time (C2 6.3% < C1; C3 10.5% < C2; C3 16% < C1). GPD showed increased velocity (C2 19% > C1; C3 13.5% > C2; C3 29.7% > C1), step length, (C2 6% > C1; C3 7% > C2; C3 16% > C1), and swing time (C2 3% > C1; C3 3% > C2; C3 5.5% > C1) and decreased step time (C2 10.3% < C1; C3 7.7% < C2; C3 17% < C1), stance time (C2 1.7% < C1; C3 1.7% < C2; C3 3.4% < C1), and double support time (C2 7% < C1; C3 9.5% < C2; C3 16% < C1). Kinematic changes observed in the intergroup comparison show that participants with PD had lower velocity in all conditions. However, per the intragroup results, both participants with and without PD managed to significantly modify gait variables to attempt to cross the street in the given time. It is necessary to assess whether this increases fall risk by exposing them to road traffic accidents.

Everyday tasks impair spatiotemporal variables of gait in older adults with Parkinson's disease.

INTRODUCTION: Although it is known that individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) have difficulties performing dual-task activities, most of the studies have verified the effect of dual tasks on gait using tasks that are uncommon to perform while walking. However, the realization of tasks involving gait that really represents the daily activities carried out by the participants, allow us to detect real fall risk situations of individuals with PD during their gait. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to verify the influence of daily-life dual-tasks on gait spatiotemporal variables of the older adults with PD. METHODS: 20 older adults without PD and 20 older adults with PD participated in the study. Gait kinematic was analyzed under three different conditions: walking without dual task, walking carrying bags with weight, and walking talking on the cell phone. RESULTS: Older adults with PD presented lower speed (p = .001), cadence (p = .039), and shorter step length (p = .028) than older adults without PD during walking without dual tasks. When walking while carrying bags with weight, older adults with PD had a lower speed (p < .001), cadence (p = .015), shorter step length (p = .008), and greater double support time (p = .021) compared with older adults without PD. During walking while talking on the cell phone, older adults with PD walked with lower speed (p < .001), cadence (p = .013), shorter step length (p = .001) and swing time (p = .013), and increased double support time (p = .008) and support time (p = .014) in relation to older adults without PD. CONCLUSION: Daily-life dual tasks impair the spatiotemporal variables of gait in the older adults with PD, which was most evident during walking talking on the cell phone.

Severe Dizziness Related to Postural Instability, Changes in Gait and Cognitive Skills in Patients with Chronic Peripheral Vestibulopathy.

Introduction Peripheral vestibular disorders can lead to cognitive deficits and are more common in elderly patients. Objective To evaluate and correlate cognitive, balance and gait aspects in elderly women with chronic peripheral vestibular dizziness, and to compare them with elderly women without vestibular disorders. Methods Twenty-two women presenting peripheral vestibular dizziness episodes for at least six months participated in the study. The individuals were categorized by dizziness severity level: moderate ( n = 11) or severe ( n = 11). The control group ( n = 11) included women showing no vestibulopathy, light-headedness or dizziness. Cognitive assessments and semi-static and dynamic balance assessments were performed with the Balance Master (Neurocom International, Inc., Clackamas, OR), while the Dizziness Handicap Inventory provided a score for the severity of the symptoms. The groups were submitted to statistics of inference and correlation between cognitive, balance and stability variables. Results The group with severe dizziness showed higher sway speed of the center of pressure in the anteroposterior direction, smaller step length, and slower gait than the control group. Regarding the cognitive variables, the group with severe dizziness symptoms presented significant correlations with stability and gait variables. Conclusion The relationship between cognitive aspects, balance and gait was stronger in women with severe dizziness than in those with no vestibulopathy.

Relationship between grip strength and global muscle strength in community-dwelling older people.

There are still conflicting results regarding the association between grip and global muscle strength in older people. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the association between grip strength and global muscle strength, as well as between grip strength and individual trunk, hip, knee and ankle muscle strengths. METHODS: Grip strength was assessed using a manual dynamometer, and trunk, hip, knee and ankle muscle strength with an isokinetic dynamometer, in order to obtain the global muscle strength variable, in 150 older men and women from the community. The association between grip and global muscle strength and between grip strength and the strength of each muscle group was determined through the Pearson correlation test, followed by multivariate linear regression adjusted for sex, age, body mass index, level of physical activity and number of comorbidities. RESULTS: A positive significant association was found between grip strength and global muscle strength in older people (r = 0.690; ß = 10.07; p < 0.001; R2 = 0.604), even after adjustment. There was also a low to moderate association between all the muscle groups and grip strength. However, when the model was adjusted, the relationship between grip strength and ankle dorsiflexor peak torque lost significance (p = 0.924). CONCLUSION: Grip strength can represent global muscle strength in younger older people in the community, even when confounding variables are considered in the statistical model. However, grip strength does not eliminate the need for specific assessment of different muscle groups, when indicated.

The influence of aging on the spatial and temporal variables of gait during usual and fast speeds in older adults aged 60 to 102 years.

BACKGROUND: With increases in life expectancy, it is important to understand the influence of aging on gait, given that this activity is related to the independence of older adults and may help in the development of health strategies that encourage successful aging in all phases of this process. RESEARCH QUESTION: To compare gait parameters with usual and fast speeds for independent and autonomous older adults throughout the aging process (60 to 102 years old), and also to identify which of the gait variables are best for identifying differences across the different age groups. METHODS: Two hundred older adults aged between 60 and 102 years were evaluated. The sample was divided into 3 age groups: 60 to 79 years, 80 to 89 years and 90 years and over. The analyzed gait variables were: speed (meters/s), cadence (steps/min), stride time (seconds), step length (centimeters), double support (percentage of the gait cycle), swing (percentage of the gait cycle), step length variability (CoV%) and stride time variability (CoV%). RESULTS: Group comparison regarding usual gait and fast gait revealed a significant difference in all gait variables. In addition, it can be seen that variables such as gait speed and step length showed greater effect sizes in intergroup comparison (usual gait: 0.48 and 0.47; fast gait: 0.36 and 0.40; respectively), possibly showing that these variables can better detect the changes observed with increasing age. CONCLUSION: There are differences in the gait performance of older adults from different age groups for usual and fast gait speeds, which is more evident regarding gait speed and step length variables. We recommend the use of usual gait for the identification of the effects of aging because, besides showing a higher effect size values it is more comfortable and requires less effort from older subjects.

Assessment of intrinsic capacity in the Brazilian older population and the psychometric properties of the WHO/ ICOPE screening tool: a multicenter cohort study protocol / Avaliação da capacidade intrínseca da população idosa brasileira e das propriedades psicométricas do instrumento de triagem do ICOPE/OMS: protocolo de estudo de coorte multicêntrico

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed to monitor intrinsic capacity (IC) in the older population as a public health strategy through the Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) program. Although the program has been developed based on solid concepts, scientific evidence on its practical applicability is still scarce. Objectives: To evaluate IC in Brazilian older adults, its progress over time, and its association with sociodemographic and health factors and outcomes. To evaluate the psychometric properties of the WHO/ICOPE screening tool. Methods: This is a prospective multicenter cohort study with a 36-month follow-up. We will recruit 3838 people aged ≥60 years, registered in the health care units included in the study by the participating centers. We will collect sociodemographic and health data and will administer tools to assess IC domains, both those provided for in the ICOPE screening tool and the sequence of confirmatory assessments provided for in the program. Participants will be reassessed every 6 months for 36 months. Expected results: To establish the profile of IC in the study population and to understand its progress and the variables associated with the clinical outcomes of interest. To reveal the diagnostic and psychometric properties of the WHO/ICOPE screening tool. The project is funded by the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). Relevance: Understanding the potential use of the ICOPE public health strategy proposed by the WHO within the scope of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) by integrating several research centers in the field of Geriatrics and Gerontology throughout Brazil. (AU)

Introdução: A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) propõe o monitoramento da capacidade intrínseca (CI) da população idosa como estratégia de saúde pública por meio do Programa ICOPE (Integrated Care for Older People). Embora construído com base em conceitos sólidos, a evidência científica sobre a aplicabilidade prática da proposta ainda é escassa. Objetivo: Avaliar a capacidade intrínseca da população idosa brasileira, sua trajetória e sua associação com variáveis sociodemográficas, de saúde e desfechos. Avaliar as propriedades psicométricas da ferramenta de triagem da estratégia ICOPE da OMS. Metodologia: Coorte multicêntrica prospectiva com seguimento de 36 meses. Serão recrutadas 3.838 pessoas com 60 anos ou mais, cadastradas nas unidades de saúde incluídas no estudo pelos centros participantes. Serão coletados dados sociodemográficos e de saúde e aplicados instrumentos para avaliação dos domínios da CI, tanto aqueles previstos no instrumento de triagem do ICOPE quanto a sequência de avaliações confirmatórias previstas no programa. Os participantes serão acompanhados semestralmente ao longo de 36 meses. Resultados esperados: Estabelecer o perfil da CI na população estudada, entender a sua trajetória e as variáveis associadas aos desfechos clínicos avaliados. Revelar as propriedades diagnósticas e o perfil psicométrico da ferramenta de triagem do ICOPE da OMS. O projeto tem financiamento do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq). Relevância: Compreensão sobre o potencial de utilização da estratégia ICOPE de saúde pública proposta pela OMS no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) pela integração de diversos centros de pesquisa científica na área de Geriatria e Gerontologia de todo o Brasil. (AU)

Brief Lower Body Functional Performance Questionnaire (Brief-LBFPQ) for independent older adults / Breve Questionário de Desempenho Funcional dos Membros Inferiores (Brief-LBFPQ) para idosos independentes

Abstract Introduction The literature still lacks evidence about patient-reported outcome measures to fast screen the reduced physical performance of the lower body in older adults to be applied in any clinical setting as primary health care or without specific instruments in prevention campaigns, or even easy to be applied by phone. Objective: To develop a brief questionnaire to screen the lower body functional performance in community-dwelling older adults and to validate this new questionnaire with objective clinical tests. Methods A convenience sampling of 221 community-dwelling older adults was included in this cross-sectional study. The validity between Brief-LBFPQ and objective tests such as gait speed, Timed-Up and Go test (TUG), 5-Time Stand-to-Sit test (5TSST), and step test were assessed by multinominal logistic regression. Internal consistency was determined using Cronbach's alpha and Test-retest reliability was determined using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for numeral scale and Cohen's Kappa for ordinal scale. Results Brief-LBFPQ was significantly associated with objective tests. All eight items from Brief-LBFPQ presented an absolute agreement with ICCs values above 0.7. Kappa values of Brief-LBFPQ items ranged from 0.6 to 0.83, showing substantial agreement and perfect agreement. Conclusion Brief-LBFPQ could be very useful in general clinic settings as it provides earlier screening of functional impairment in independent older adults, and consequently may allow an earlier intervention approach.

Resumo Introdução A literatura ainda carece de evidências acerca de instrumentos de autorrelato para o rastreio rápido do prejuízo no desempenho físico dos membros inferiores em idosos, que possam ser aplicados em qualquer ambiente clínico, como na Atenção Básica à Saúde, e que não requeiram nenhum ins-trumento específico para campanhas de prevenção, ou mesmo de fácil aplicação por contato telefônico. Objetivo Desenvolver um breve questionário para triagem do desempenho funcional dos membros inferiores em idosos da comunidade e validar este novo questionário com testes clínicos objetivos. Métodos Uma amostra de conveniência de 221 idosos da comunidade foi incluída neste estudo transversal. A validade entre o Brief-LBFPQ e os testes objetivos como velocidade da marcha, Timed-Up and Go (TUG), teste de levantar e sentar 5 vezes (TLS5x) e teste do degrau foi avaliada pela regressão logística multinominal. A consistência interna foi determinada pelo alfa de Cronbach e a confiabilidade teste-reteste foi determinada pelo coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI) para a escala numérica e o Kappa de Cohen para a escala ordinal. Resultados O Brief-LBFPQ foi significativamente associado aos testes objetivos. Todos os oito itens do Brief-LBFPQ apresentaram concordância absoluta com valores de CCI acima de 0,7. Os valores de Kappa dos itens do Brief-LBFPQ variaram de 0,6 a 0,83, mostrando concordância substancial e concordância perfeita. Conclusão O Brief-LBFPQ pode ser muito útil em diferentes ambientes clínicos, pois permite uma triagem precoce do comprometimento funcional em idosos independentes e, consequentemente, pode permitir uma abordagem de intervenção mais precoce.

The effects of a simultaneous cognitive or motor task on the kinematics of walking in older fallers and non-fallers.

Human gait has been widely investigated under dual-task conditions because it has been demonstrated to be an important way to uncover differences in gait biomechanics between older fallers and non-fallers. However, exactly how simultaneous tasks affect the kinematics of walking remains unclear. In the present study, gait kinematic properties of older fallers and non-fallers were compared under cognitive and motor dual-task conditions. The gait kinematic properties of interest were recorded under three different conditions: walking at preferred speed, walking when performing a cognitive task (naming animals), and walking when performing a motor task (transferring a coin from one pocket to the other). The following variables were analyzed: gait speed, cadence, stride time, step length, single support, stride time variability, and the dual-task cost. In addition, functional balance was evaluated by means of the Balance Evaluation - Systems Test (BESTest). Two-way repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed significant main effects of walking conditions. However, no significant main effects of group (fallers vs. non-fallers) and no significant interaction effects between group and walking condition were observed. The BESTest revealed that functional balance in fallers was worse than in non-fallers. The cognitive task leads to more significant changes in gait kinematics than does a motor task and the step length and stride time variability were variables more sensitive to that cognitive influence.

Artificial gait in complete spinal cord injured subjects: how to assess clinical performance.

OBJECTIVE: Adapt the 6 minutes walking test (6MWT) to artificial gait in complete spinal cord injured (SCI) patients aided by neuromuscular electrical stimulation. METHOD: Nine male individuals with paraplegia (AIS A) participated in this study. Lesion levels varied between T4 and T12 and time post injured from 4 to 13 years. Patients performed 6MWT 1 and 6MWT 2. They used neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and were aided by a walker. The differences between two 6MWT were assessed by using a paired t test. Multiple r-squared was also calculated. RESULTS: The 6MWT 1 and 6MWT 2 were not statistically different for heart rate, distance, mean speed and blood pressure. Multiple r-squared (r2 = 0.96) explained 96% of the variation in the distance walked. CONCLUSION: The use of 6MWT in artificial gait towards assessing exercise walking capacity is reproducible and easy to apply. It can be used to assess SCI artificial gait clinical performance.

Severe Dizziness Related to Postural Instability, Changes in Gait and Cognitive Skills in Patients with Chronic Peripheral Vestibulopathy

Abstract Introduction Peripheral vestibular disorders can lead to cognitive deficits and are more common in elderly patients. Objective To evaluate and correlate cognitive, balance and gait aspects in elderly women with chronic peripheral vestibular dizziness, and to compare them with elderly women without vestibular disorders. Methods Twenty-two women presenting peripheral vestibular dizziness episodes for at least six months participated in the study. The individuals were categorized by dizziness severity level: moderate (n = 11) or severe (n = 11). The control group (n = 11) included women showing no vestibulopathy, light-headedness or dizziness. Cognitive assessments and semi-static and dynamic balance assessments were performed with the Balance Master (Neurocom International, Inc., Clackamas, OR), while the Dizziness Handicap Inventory provided a score for the severity of the symptoms. The groups were submitted to statistics of inference and correlation between cognitive, balance and stability variables. Results The group with severe dizziness showed higher sway speed of the center of pressure in the anteroposterior direction, smaller step length, and slower gait than the control group. Regarding the cognitive variables, the group with severe dizziness symptoms presented significant correlations with stability and gait variables. Conclusion The relationship between cognitive aspects, balance and gait was stronger in women with severe dizziness than in those with no vestibulopathy.

Recomendações para prescrição de dispositivos auxiliares da marcha em idosos / Recommendations for prescribing walking aids in older adults

O uso de um dispositivo auxiliar da marcha (DAM), como bengala ou andador, pode auxiliar os idosos na realização de suas atividades diárias, mantendo-os funcionalmente independentes e relativamente ativos. Porém, a utilização inadequada, o mau estado e as dimensões incorretas do dispositivo, assim como erros na prescrição do tipo de dispositivo podem aumentar o risco de quedas nos idosos usuários de DAM. Diante da falta de recomendações quanto à sua prescrição, o objetivo desse artigo é discorrer sobre os pré-requisitos para a prescrição de cada dispositivo (bengala e andador), de acordo com a nossa experiência adquirida na Área de Fisioterapia em Gerontologia, no Centro de Reabilitação (CER) do Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto, considerando as evidências científicas disponíveis até o momento. Assim, com a difusão das informações contidas nesse artigo para os profissionais da saúde que prestam assistência a idosos, espera-se aprimorar a prática de prescrição do DAM e de educação do idoso, de seus familiares e cuidadores, a fim de que sejam alcançados os benefícios do uso de um DAM e prevenidos os possíveis eventos adversos, como as quedas.

The use of a walking aid device (WAD), such as a cane or walker, can assist older adults in performing their daily activities, keeping them functionally independent and relatively active. However, improper use, poor condition and incorrect dimensions of the device, as well as errors in prescribing the type of device may increase the risk of falls in older people who use a WAD. Given the lack of recommendations on its prescription, the purpose of this article is to discuss the requirements for the prescription of each device (cane and walker), according to our experience obtained in the area of ​​Gerontology Physiotherapy in the Rehabilitation Center (CER) of the Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto, considering the scientific evidence available at the moment. Thus, by disseminating the information contained in this article to health professionals who provide care to older people, it is expected to improve the practice of prescribing WAD and educating the older adults, their families and caregivers, in order to achieve the benefits of use a WAD and prevent possible adverse events such as falls.

Postural responses of galvanic vestibular stimulation: comparison between groups of older adults and young people / Respostas posturais frente à estimulação vestibular galvânica: comparação entre grupo de pessoas idosas e jovens

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effect of vestibular manipulation on the postural sway and muscle activation of younger and older adults. Methods: The study analyzed the effects of three intensity levels of galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) (0.3; 0.6 and 1m) on the pattern of muscle activity and center of pressure (CP) displacements of 12 older adults (EG) and 12 young adults (CG) while maintaining their balance on a stable surface, with no vision. Results: The EG showed a positive correlation between CP displacement and muscle activity and GVS intensity. On the other hand, the magnitude of postural response in the EG was not modulated in accordance with GVS intensities. Additionally, during the highest GVS intensity level (1 mA) greater muscle activity was used to increase stiffness, decrease the amplitude of oscillation and ensure stability. This unusual response characterizes a pattern of co-activation and is perhaps a safety mechanism to ensure stability. Conclusion: The EG individuals were not able to select the appropriate motor strategy to efficiently compensate the effects of GVS. This unusual strategy reflects deficits in the vestibular system of older adults, a fact which negatively interferes with their ability to reevaluate sensory information.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a interferência da manipulação das informações vestibulares na oscilação postural e atividade muscular de jovens e idosos. Métodos: Foi analisado o efeito de três intensidades (0,3; 0,6 e 1mA) de estimulação vestibular galvânica (GVS) no padrão de ativação muscular e deslocamento do centro de pressão (CP) de 12 idosos (GI) e 12 adultos jovens (GC), durante a manutenção do equilíbrio em uma superfície estável sem visão. Resultados: O GC mostrou correlação positiva entre o deslocamento de CP e a ativação muscular com a intensidade da GVS. Por outro lado, o GI não foi capaz de modular a magnitude da resposta postural com a intensidade da GVS. Durante o maior valor de GVS (1mA), houve um aumento da ativação muscular de agonista e antagonista caracterizando um padrão de coativação que aumentou a rigidez e diminuiu a amplitude de oscilação. Conclusão: Os indivíduos do GI selecionaram uma estratégia motora atípica para compensar os efeitos da GVS. Essa estratégia incomum refletiu deficit no sistema vestibular dos idosos e pode interferir negativamente na capacidade de reorganização das informações sensoriais.

Medo de quedas e força muscular do quadril em idosos independentes da comunidade / Miedo a caerse y fuerza muscular de cadera en ancianos independientes de la comunidad / Fear of falling and hip muscular strength in independent older adults of the community

RESUMO O medo de quedas pode fazer com que o idoso desenvolva estratégias que alteram o equilíbrio semiestático e dinâmico, predispondo-o a um risco aumentado de cair. A função muscular dos abdutores e adutores de quadril tem importante papel na manutenção da estabilidade postural. Entretanto, não se sabe se idosos com medo de cair apresentam maior comprometimento na função muscular do quadril. Assim, o objetivo foi comparar o pico de torque (PT) isométrico dos músculos abdutores e adutores de quadril entre idosos com e sem medo de quedas. Os participantes foram divididos em dois grupos: com (n=81) e sem (n=81) medo de quedas. O PT dos abdutores e adutores de quadril foi obtido com dinamômetro isocinético (System 4 Pro, Biodex, Nova York, EUA). A comparação do PT dos grupos foi realizada por meio de modelo linear geral univariado, ajustado pelas covariáveis idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal, nível de atividade física e histórico de quedas, utilizando o software SPSS 17.0, com nível de significância de 5%. Não houve diferença do PT abdutor e adutor do quadril entre os grupos após análise univariada com ajustamento. Observou-se que idosos com medo de quedas não apresentam prejuízos na função muscular dos estabilizadores de quadril quando comparados a idosos sem medo de quedas.

RESUMEN El miedo a caerse puede hacer que los ancianos desarrollen estrategias de alteración del equilibrio semiestático y dinámico, predisponiéndolos a un mayor riesgo de caídas. La función muscular de los abductores y de los aductores de cadera juega un papel importante en el mantenimiento de la estabilidad postural. Sin embargo, no se sabe si los ancianos con miedo a caerse tienen un mayor deterioro en la función muscular de la cadera. Por lo tanto, el objetivo fue comparar el torque máximo (TM) isométrico de los músculos abductores y aductores de cadera entre los ancianos con miedo y sin miedo a caerse. Los participantes se dividieron en dos grupos: con miedo a caerse (n=81) y sin (n=81) miedo a caerse. El TM de los abductores y aductores de cadera se obtuvo mediante la utilización del dinamómetro isocinético (System 4 Pro, Biodex, Nueva York, EE.UU.). La comparación del TM de los grupos se realizó mediante un modelo lineal general univariado, ajustado por covariables edad, género, índice de masa corporal, nivel de actividad física e historial de caídas, utilizando el software SPSS 17.0, con nivel de significancia del 5%. No hubo diferencias entre el TM del abductor y del aductor de cadera entre los grupos tras el análisis univariado con ajuste. Se observó que los ancianos con miedo a caerse no presentaron daños en la función muscular de los estabilizadores de la cadera en comparación con los ancianos sin miedo a caerse.

ABSTRACT The fear of falling can cause older adults to develop strategies that alter the semi-static and dynamic balance, predisposing them to increased risk of falling. The muscular function of abductors and adductors plays an important role in maintaining postural stability. However, it is unknown whether older people with fear of falling have greater impairment in hip muscular function. Thus, the objective was to compare the isometric peak torque (PT) of hip abductor and adductor muscles among older adults with and without fear of falling. Participants were divided into two groups: with (n=81) and without (n=81) fear of falling. The PT of hip abductors and adductors was obtained with isokinetic dynamometer (System 4 Pro, Biodex, New York, USA). The PT groups were compared using general linear model univariate, adjusted for covariates age, sex, body mass index, physical activity level and history of falls, using the SPSS 17.0 software, with a significance level of 5%. No difference was found between the PT of hip abductor and adductor and the groups after univariate analysis with adjustment. We observed that older people with fear of falling have no muscle function loss of the hip stabilizers when compared with subjects without fear of falling.

Postural control assessment in physically active and sedentary individuals with paraplegia / Avaliação do controle postural em indivíduos com paraplegia fisicamente ativos e sedentários

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate functional independence and trunk control during maximum-range tasks in individuals with spinal cord injuries, who were divided into sedentary (SSI, n=10) and physically active (PASI, n=10) groups . Methods: Anamnesis was conducted and level and type of injury were identified (according to the American Spinal Injury Association protocol, ASIA) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) questionnaire was applied. For the forward and lateral reach task, the subjects were instructed to reach as far as possible. Mean data were compared using the unpaired t test and Mann-Whitney test and differences were considered significant when p<0.05 . Results: The PASI group performed better in self-care activities (PASI: 40.8±0.42 points, SSI: 38.0±3.58 points, p=0.01), sphincter control (PASI: 10.5±1.84 points, SSI: 8.2±3.04 points, p=0.02), transfers (PASI: 20.7±0.48 points, SSI: 16.9±4.27 points, p=0.04), and total FIM score (PASI: 104.0±2.30 points, SSI 105.1±8.56 points, p=0.01). On the maximum reach task, the PASI group had a greater average range in all directions evaluated (p<0.05) . Conclusion: The continuous practice of exercise increased motor function independence and trunk control in individuals with complete spinal cord injury. Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a independência funcional e o controle de tronco durante tarefas de alcance máximo em indivíduos com lesão medular, que foram divididos em grupo sedentário (SSI, n = 10) e grupo fisicamente ativo (PASI, n=10). Métodos: Foi realizada anamnese, identificação do nível e tipo de lesão (de acordo com o protocolo da ASIA - American Spinal Injury Association), e aplicou-se o questionário de Medida de Independência Funcional (MIF). Para a tarefa de alcance anterior e lateral os indivíduos foram instruídos a fazer o alcance máximo. Para comparação das médias dos dados foram aplicados o teste t não pareado e teste de Mann-Whitney, e as diferenças foram consideradas significativas quando p < 0,05. Resultados: O grupo PASI teve melhor desempenho na realização de atividades de autocuidado (PASI: 40,8 ± 0,42 pontos, SSI 38,0 ± 3,58 pontos, p = 0,01), controle de esfíncter (PASI: 10,5 ± 1,84 pontos, SSI 8,2 ± 3,04 pontos, p = 0,02), transferências (PASI: 20,7 ± 0,48 pontos, SSI 16,9 ± 4,27 pontos, p = 0,04) e MIF total (PASI: 104,0 ± 2,30 pontos, SSI 105,1 ± 8,56 pontos, p = 0,01). No alcance máximo, o grupo PASI teve maior alcance médio em todas as direções avaliadas (p < 0,05) . Conclusão: A prática de exercício físico contínuo aumentou a independência funcional motora e o controle de tronco em indivíduos com lesão medular completa. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Prospectivo Comparativo.

Postural control parameters in elderly female fallers and non-fallers diagnosed or not with knee osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVES: To compare stabilometric parameters of elderly female fallers and non-fallers associated or not with knee osteoarthritis (OA). METHODS: Fifty-six elderly female fallers and non-fallers diagnosed or not with unilateral or bilateral knee OA were divided into the following groups: FOA (n = 10), elderly female fallers with knee OA; FNOA (n = 11), elderly female fallers without knee OA; NFOA (n = 14), elderly female non-fallers with knee OA; and NFNOA (n = 21), elderly female non-fallers without knee OA. For analyzing semi-static balance on a force platform with the elderly females standing, the following parameters were assessed in four conditions: center of pressure (COP), anterior-posterior and mediolateral displacements (APD and MLD, respectively); and COP anterior-posterior and mediolateral displacement velocities (APV and MLV, respectively). The following conditions were assessed: 1) standing on a firm wooden surface with eyes open (WSEO); 2) standing on a firm wooden surface with eyes closed (WSEC); 3) standing on a foam surface with eyes open (FSEO); 4) standing on a foam surface with eyes closed (FSEC). RESULTS: The elderly females with knee OA showed greater APD in all four conditions assessed (P < 0.05), while the elderly female fallers showed greater MLD (P < 0.05). No difference between the groups was observed for APV and MLV (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Knee OA per se increases APD of the COP, while the history of falls, regardless of the presence of knee OA, hinders postural control in the ML direction.

Immediate effects of an anchor system on the stability limit of individuals with chronic dizziness of peripheral vestibular origin / Efeitos imediatos de um sistema de âncoras no limite de estabilidade de indivíduos com tontura crônica de origem vestibular periférica

Abstract Introduction The symptoms associated with chronic peripheral vestibulopathy exert a negative impact on the independence and quality of life of these individuals, and many individuals continue to suffer from these symptoms even after conventional vestibular rehabilitation. Objective To evaluate the acute effect of an anchor system for balance evaluation of patients with chronic dizziness who failed to respond to traditional vestibular rehabilitation. Methods Subjects over 50 years of age, presenting with chronic dizziness and postural instability of peripheral vestibular origin, participated in the study. The limit of stability was evaluated in three positions using the Balance Master® system: Position 1, standing with the arms along the body; Position 2, standing with the elbows bent at 90º (simulating holding the anchors); and Position 3, with the elbows bent at 90º holding the anchors. The variables of movement latency, endpoint excursion and directional control of movement were evaluated. Results Using the anchor system, significant reduction of time in the response at the beginning of the movement compared to Position 1 (p < 0.05); increased endpoint excursion in the left lateral direction compared to Position 1 (p < 0.05); and more directional control of movement in the anterior and posterior directions (p < 0.05) compared to the other positions, were found. Conclusion While using the system anchor, individuals with chronic peripheral vestibulopathy showed an immediate improvement in the stability limit in relation to the movement latency, endpoint excursion, and directional control of movement variables, suggesting that the haptic information aids postural control.

Resumo Introdução Os sintomas associados à vestibulopatia periférica crônica têm impacto negativo na independência e qualidade de vida dos indivíduos e muitos deles continuam a sofrer desses sintomas, mesmo depois de ter passado pela reabilitação vestibular convencional. Objetivo Avaliar o efeito agudo de um sistema de ancoragem para avaliação do equilíbrio de pacientes com tontura crônica que não responderam à reabilitação vestibular tradicional. Método Participaram do estudo indivíduos com mais de 50 anos que se apresentaram com tontura crônica e instabilidade postural de origem vestibular periférica. O limite de estabilidade foi avaliado em três posições, com o uso do sistema Balance Master®: Posição 1, de pé com os braços pendentes ao longo do corpo; Posição 2, de pé com os cotovelos flexionados em 90º (simulando a posição de segurar as âncoras); e Posição 3, com os cotovelos flexionados em 90º e segurando as âncoras. Foram avaliadas as variáveis de latência de movimento, o ponto final da excursão e o controle direcional do movimento. Resultados Com o uso do sistema de âncoras, ocorreu redução significante no tempo de resposta no início do movimento em comparação com a Posição 1 (p < 0,05); aumento no ponto final da excursão na direção lateral esquerda, em comparação com a Posição 1 (p < 0,05); e mais controle direcional do movimento nas direções anterior e posterior (p < 0,05), em comparação com as demais posições. Conclusão Enquanto usavam o sistema de âncoras, os indivíduos com vestibulopatia periférica demonstraram melhoria imediata no limite da estabilidade em relação às variáveis latência de movimento, ponto final da excursão e controle direcional do movimento. Isso sugere que a informação háptica auxilia no controle postural.