The effects of toe grip training on physical performance and cognitive function of nursing home residents

Abstract

Background Toe grip-related training requires individuals to actively exercise muscles that are not frequently used; therefore, it may improve not only toe grip strength but also cognitive function. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of toe grip-related training on predictors of physical performance and cognitive function in nursing home residents. Methods A total of 35 nursing home residents (35 left and 35 right feet; mean age, 82.1 ± 7.9 years) were included in this study. The participants were divided into two groups: a training group and a control group. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess the cognitive function of the participants, and the Fall Risk Index (FRI) was used to evaluate the risk of falls. Toe grip-related physical function was also assessed. Baseline endpoints were evaluated and the effects of toe grip-related training were examined following a 12-week training intervention. Results The training group showed significant improvements in MMSE score, FRI score, toe grip strength, and the toe skill (TS) test; however, the control group did not show these changes. The training group showed significant increases in Δ MMSE, Δ toe grip strength, and Δ TS (right foot) than the control group. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that Δ toe grip strength is an independent factor of Δ MMSE. Conclusions Toe grip training improves not only toe grip strength itself, but also cognitive function. Furthermore, change in toe grip strength was an independent factor of change in MMSE in those populations. Trial registration UMIN, UMIN000027437 . Registered on 26 May 2017.

Effects of Long-Term Use of Insoles with a Toe-Grip Bar on the Balance, Walking, and Running of Preschool Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Studies have shown that progressive resistance training and toe-grip-related training, such as performing towelgathering exercises, are effective methods for improving the toe-grip strength [16,17]. However, if this training is not performed regularly, then it is difficult to maintain the beneficial effects.…”

The correlation between toe flexor strength and performance-based measures of physical fitness in the elderly

“…Previous studies showed an association between TFS and physical activity 2 , 3 ) , prevalence of diabetes mellitus in middle-aged men 8 ) , gait performance 4 ) , fall 5 , 6 , 7 ) , and cognitive function in the elderly 9 ) . TFS is a simple, safe, and inexpensive way to evaluate lower limb muscle strength.…”

“…Toe flexion is a combination of the action of plantar intrinsic and extrinsic muscles 1 ) . Toe flexor strength (TFS) is related to physical activity level 2 , 3 ) , locomotive performance 4 ) , fall 5 , 6 , 7 ) , diabetes mellitus 8 ) , and cognitive function 9 ) ; thus, evaluation of TFS may be useful for screening for health and aging-related problems.…”

Relationship between Fall History and Toe Grip Strength in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Toe grip strength training in nursing home residents led to signi cant improvements in the fall risk index. A signi cant increase in TGS was noted in the intervention group compared to that in the non-intervention group [22]. Therefore, it is clinically important to evaluate and strengthen TGS to prevent falls in older adults.…”

“…Toe grip strength training in nursing home residents led to signi cant improvements in the fall risk index. A signi cant increase in TGS was noted in the intervention group compared to that in the non-intervention group [22]. Therefore, it is clinically important to evaluate and strengthen TGS to prevent falls in older adults.To date, no study has investigated the relationship between falls and TGS in older adults with KOA who are at risk of falling owing to lower limb muscle weakness and impaired balance.…”