Comparison of hip abduction range of motion and strength and ankle dorsiflexion in older adults with and without a history of falls.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Falls are among the most serious complications of aging, leading to disability, reduced quality of life, and even mortality. "Evidence suggests that weakness in proximal muscles (such as the hip abductors) and distal muscles (such as the ankle dorsiflexors) may contribute to impaired balance and increased fall risk in older adults." However, few studies have simultaneously compared both the range of motion and strength of these two muscle groups in older adults with and without a history of falls. The aim of the present study was to compare hip abduction and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and strength between older adults with and without a history of falls.

METHODS: This cross-sectional comparative study included 60 community-dwelling older adults (30 with and 30 without a history of falls within the past 6 months). Range of motion was measured using a universal goniometer, and isometric muscle strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer. Data were analyzed using the independent samples t-test at a significance level of p < 0.05.

RESULTS: No significant difference was observed between the two groups in hip abduction range of motion (p = 0.188). However, the group without a history of falls demonstrated greater hip abduction strength (p < 0.001), ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (p < 0.001), and ankle dorsiflexor strength (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Concurrent weakness in the hip abductors and ankle dorsiflexors may be associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults. Combined assessment of muscle strength and range of motion in these regions may assist in identifying older adults with characteristics associated with fall history.