Mobility limitation, balance impairment and musculoskeletal pain among people aged ≥75 years : a study with a comprehensive geriatric intervention
Year: 2012
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between pain, mobility and postural balance.In addition, the effects of a comprehensive geriatric assessment and individualized intervention on mobility among persons aged 75 years and over were studied.This study forms part of the Geriatric Multidisciplinary Strategy for the Good Care of the Elderly project (n=781), which comprised a baseline assessment succeeded by a two-year geriatric intervention with annual measurements and a one-year postintervention follow-up.Data on musculoskeletal pain and perceived walking difficulties were obtained by questionnaires administered in face-to-face interviews.Mobility assessments comprised maximal walking speed over 10 meters, the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test, Berg Balance scale, and self-reports.Mobility limitation was defined as poor performance or inability to perform the TUG test and perceived difficulties or inability in walking 400 meters.Postural balance was assessed as movement of center of pressure in different standing positions on a force platform.Persistent musculoskeletal pain was associated with mobility limitation and postural balance impairment independently of several known risk factors.The risk for mobility limitation and balance impairment was highest among persons who had moderate or severe pain (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.10-3.13;2.33, 1.44-3.76respectively) compared to pain-free persons.In addition to the positive effect on walking speed, TUG and Berg Balance test, a comprehensive geriatric intervention reduced the risk for perceived difficulties in walking (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.75-0.94).The positive effect of the geriatric intervention on mobility was strong particularly among persons with musculoskeletal pain.The results of the study indicate that musculoskeletal pain is an important determinant of mobility limitation among older people.In addition to walking problems, pain compromises the ability to maintain postural balance.The results suggest that a comprehensive geriatric assessment and individualized intervention may provide an effective means to promote mobility and balance, which is important for maintaining independence in the community.The intervention benefited in particular persons with pain, a group at risk for further mobility decline.
Author: Katri Lihavainen
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Jyväskylän Yliopisto
OpenAlex ID: W203997064