Locomotive Syndrome, Musculoskeletal Ambulation Disorder Symptom Complex, Frailty and Sarcopenia / The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

ABSTRACT

As Japan has become a super-aging society a new focus has been placed on locomotive syndrome (Locomo), musculoskeletal ambulation disorder symptom complex (MADS), frailty and sarcopenia. Locomo is a condition whereby long-term care or support is needed or may be needed in the future due to weakness of the locomotive organs. MADS is a condition presenting with unstable balance or walking difficulty, which leads to a high risk of the patient falling down or giving up excursions outside the home. In a broad sense, MADS patients also belong in the Locomo category. The prevention and treatment of Locomo and MADS are very important, because these conditions typically result in deterioration of the exercise function and loss of mental and physical health. The aim of Locomotive syndrome exercises is to reduce pain, and to restore and improve joint function. We need to take a comprehensive approach to Locomotive syndrome, including lifestyle modification, muscle exercise, stretching and therapeutic exercise. Two basic, simple and commonly used exercises are single-leg standing and squats exercises.