Materials and Method: Postural stability was assessed by Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and also by static and dynamic balance tests on Kinesthetic Ability Trainer-3000 (KAT). Muscle strength was assessed for knee flexion and extension using isokinetic dynamometer.
Results: Fifty-five subjects aged between 65 and 80 years were included. Fall rate was 27.3%. In the faller group, osteoarthritis and assistive device use, total number of systemic diseases and drugs were significantly higher (p<0.05). In the faller group, BBS scores were lower (p=0.035); static (SBI) and dynamic (DBI) balance indexes measured on KAT were significantly higher (SBI p=0.038; DBI p=0.047). The difference of peak torque (PT) at 180°/sec angular velocity was statistically significant (flexion PT, p=0.006; extension PT, p=0.026; flexion work, p=0.008; extension work, p=0.034).
Conclusion: Elderly people with a high risk of falling have decreased muscle strength and balance ability. Physiatrists and other health professionals treating geriatric population should be aware of the importance of this public health problem which can be prevented with appropriate measures.
Keywords : Muscle Strength; Postural Balance; Resistance Training; Aged