Examining the association between vestibular function and lower extremity circumference in an aged population

Abstract

Aim To explore the association between vestibular dysfunction and specific anthropometric parameters. Methods The results from 2420 participants of the 1999–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included for the evaluation of vestibular dysfunction using the Romberg test of standing balance and anthropometric measurements, including waist circumference, thigh circumference, calf circumference (CC), waist‐to‐thigh ratio (WTR) and waist‐to‐calf ratio (WCR). Passing the balance test was defined as participants keeping their balance for 30 s while in the standing position with their eyes closed. Multivariable logistic regression models were the main statistical tools in the present study. Results The mean age of the participants was approximately 65 years, and half of the study participants were men. The full adjusted odds ratio of vestibular dysfunction for the CC, thigh circumference, WCR and WTR was 0.941 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.894–0.992), 0.948 (95% CI 0.912–0.986), 1.856 (95% CI 1.087–3.170) and 2.516 (95% CI 1.235–5.126), respectively. Higher waist circumference along with lower thigh circumference and CC were observed in the participants in the higher WTR and WCR quartiles. Furthermore, a dose–response relationship between vestibular dysfunction and anthropometric ratios was detected. Discussion The present study showed that individuals with lower CC and thigh circumference or higher WCR and WTR exhibited higher odds of having vestibular dysfunction. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 622–627.