Postural coping strategies of the active elderly on shoulder disturbance related to anterior falls

Abstract

Background: Static postural stability in older adults is often subject to external disturbances leading to sudden changes in balance. Understanding the ability of older adults who engage in regular physical activity to adjust and control their posture under static conditions will help to develop and promote strategies to reduce fall risk. This study examined the differential effects of regular physical activity on postural adjustment and control in older adults, focusing on responses to pre-shoulder barriers and visual conditions.Methods: Thirty participants were divided into two groups: 15 younger and 15 physically active older adults. The study assessed their postural responses to controlled anterior shoulder perturbations under different visual conditions. Muscle activation patterns and co-contraction rates were measured using electromyography, joint angle changes were analyzed using imaging techniques, and postural control was assessed using a force platform.Results: The active older participant group demonstrated better balance control and faster postural adjustment, with notable findings including improved use of compensatory postural adjustment strategies and reduced postural sway. Visual conditions significantly affected postural control strategies, with reduced visual input increasing thigh and trunk stiffness.Conclusions: Physically active older adults demonstrate good performance in response to a forward perturbation experiment. This study emphasizes that faster anticipatory postural adjustments in response to forward perturbations, reduced postural amplitude and increased joint stiffness are effective in reducing fall risk.