[Electromyography study of the anterior tibial muscle and accidental falls in the elderly].
This article investigates if surface electromyography of the tibialis anterior muscle during rest, maximal contraction and balance stressing pick out elderly people at risk for falling. With a same view postural responses underlying balance control were recorded as well. Four groups were compared: an experimental group composed of nursing home residents (n = 15) with three or more unexplained falls in the prior year, a nonfalling control group of nursing home residents (n = 15) of equivalent age, a group of subjects (n = 15) in middle age and finally a group of young participants (n = 15). EMG activity during maximal contraction of the tibialis anterior muscle was significantly lower in the falling group and the postural responses during balance testing were inappropriate.
Van Vaerenbergh
J
J
Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Tervuursevest 101, B-3001 Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium. jo.vanvaerenbergh@ping.be
Briers
L
L
Broos
P
P
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004576:Electromyography; D005260:Female; D016330:Frail Elderly; D006801:Humans; D007537:Isometric Contraction / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology; D012307:Risk Factors