The Effect of Localized Upper Extremity Fatigue on Balance in Young and Older Adults. (2nd January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Aron, Adrian; Powell, Jaclyn; Kim, Esther; Gidu, Diana; Jagger, Kristen; Paul, Arco
• Is Part Of: Physical & occupational therapy in geriatrics. Volume 39:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 11
• Page End: 21
• Publication Date: 2021-01-02
• Subjects: Age -- balance -- fatigue -- upper extremity; Physical therapy for older people -- Periodicals; Occupational therapy for older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; 615.820846
• DOI: 10.1080/02703181.2020.1781321
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0270-3181

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: This study investigated the effects of upper extremity muscle fatigue on dynamic and static balance in young and old populations. Methods: Static and dynamic balance was assessed in 20 males before and after an upper extremity (UE) fatigue protocol. Fatigue was achieved using an arm crank ergometer protocol, which consisted of 3-minute intervals of UE exercise, increasing by 25 watts in a range of 70-80 rpms, until exhaustion. Results: The UE fatigue protocol did not negatively impact dynamic or static balance levels in either young or old populations. In fact, UE fatigue was shown to have a positive influence on dynamic balance in the posterolateral direction in the young population. Conclusion: Although old population demonstrated preexisting balance impairments, UE exercise does not appear to further impair balance. Additionally, the influence on dynamic balance after UE fatigue in the young population may indicate a possible priming effect.