Neuromuscular Activation during Balance Testing in Young, Middle-aged, and Older Adults

Abstract

Aging results in structural changes that inhibit functional balance with daily activities. The purpose of this research was to investigate the relationship of neuromuscular activation of the upper leg to balance and fall risk in the adult population. Eighteen males (32.44yrs ± 14.06) and 32 females (41.88yrs ± 18.07) completed strength and balance assessments with surface electromyography. Results indicated a significant age effect on the Clinical Test of Sensory Integration and Balance score (p = 0.019), and a significant gender effect on knee flexion torque (p < 0.001) and knee extension torque (p < 0.001). Linear regression determined a significant association between reduced muscle coactivation, gender, and age to predict Fall Risk Sway Velocity Index scores (p = 0.010, R2 = .218). Middle-aged adults had worse balance scores, and females demonstrated weaker muscular strength; reduced neuromuscular coactivation, age, and gender predicted 21.8% of the variability in Fall Risk scores.