Stepping responses during forward and backward fall recovery between Thai elderly fallers and non-fallers

Abstract

[Purpose] The present study compared the ground reaction forces and temporospatial characteristics of the initial foot movement following anteroposterior platform perturbation between elderly fallers and non-fallers. [Subjects] Eighty-one elderly female subjects aged between 60 to 70 years were divided into faller (N=36) and non-faller (N=45) groups. [Methods] A motorized platform translation was applied as a perturbation. The response characteristics were recorded using a forceplate and a six-video camera 3D Vicon™ motion analysis system. [Results] Both faller and non-faller groups showed a forward single step pattern greater than a backward single step pattern. The swing duration time of the non-faller group was significantly longer than that of the fallers, whereas step velocity of the fallers showed higher values than that of the non-fallers during forward single step. [Conclusion] The step ability in the faller group was decreased compared to the non-faller group during the forward single step. The findings suggest that the muscle performance of the primary muscles for balance recovery should be promoted in the elderly. Moreover, stability and ability to stand on one leg should be a measurement and training concern for the elderly to reduce the likelihood of falls. Key words: Elderly, Fall, Stepping response