Relationship between structural and functional characteristics of trunk muscles in elderly individuals

The aim of this study was to investigate the structural and functional characteristics of trunk muscles in relation to postural balance skills of individuals in elderly people. Fifty four elderly people with mean age of 73,39 ± 6,09 years was included the study. Trunk muscles were evaluated as Upper Rectus Abdominus (URA), Middle Rectus Abdominus (MRA), Lower Rektus Abdominus (LRA), Obliquus Externus (OE), Obliquus Internus (OI), Transversus Abdominus (TrA), Lumbal Erector Spinae (LES) and Lumbal Multifidus (LMF). The structural characteristics of the muscles were determined as thickness by ultrasound imaging method, the functional properties of the muscles are determined as signal amplitude by superficial electromyography (sEMG). Deep lumbar muscle strength was assessed with Stabilizer Biofeedback device. The postural balance skills of the individuals were performed with the Bertec Balance Legacy System. Functional balance skills assessed with Berg Balance Scale and Tinetti Falling Efficiency Scale. The SF-36 Quality of Life Scale was used to determine the quality of life of individuals. There was a positive correlation in URA, MRA, OE, TrA, LES, LMF muscle thickness and LMF, LES muscle activations with the stability areas of individuals (p<0,05). There was a negative correlation in LRA and OI muscle thickness, Oİ, TrA, LES, LMF muscle activations with persons sway area. There was a positive correlation between the stability score which obtained in the open eyes position on the hard floor and the mental health subscale of the quality of life scale (p= 0,022, r= 0,310). The increase in the thickness and activation of trunk muscles in elderly individuals increases the area of stability, thereby reducing the area of postural sway and allowing them to have a more stable postural balance.