No abstract

Background: Balance deficit is one of the leading factors resulting in falls. Relative contribution of sensorimotor factors to balance abilities is well described in the literature. However, the relationship of lower extremity biomechanical alignment with balance abilities in older adults is still unexplored. The cross-sectional study was aimed to examine how changes in lower extremity biomechanical alignment were related to balance abilities in community dwelling older adults.Materials and Methods: 300 community dwelling older adults (50 -80 years) were recruited according to specific selection criteria from areas in and around Patiala. Balance abilities were assessed using Multi-item Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) scale categorizing subjects into two groups: (i) those having good (n = 125) and (ii) poor balance (n = 175) abilities (cut -off score < 25/40). Static lower extremity biomechanical alignment (Femoral torsion, Q-angle, Tibio-femoral angle, Tibial torsion, Navicular height and Rearfoot angle) was measured clinically. Discussion and Conclusion:Femoral torsion, Q-angle, Tibio-femoral angle and Tibial torsion showed significant differences between the subjects having good and poor balance abilities. Univariate logistic regression showed significant association of only three factors with balance abilities i.e., Femoral torsion (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.23 -0.69), Tibio-femoral angle (OR = 0.37, CI = 0.16 -0.87) and Tibial torsion (OR = 2.07, CI = 1.15 -3.70). Hence, lower limb biomechanical alignment alteration i.e. increase in Femoral torsion, Tibio-femoral angle and Tibial torsion were significantly associated with balance abilities in older adults.