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Effect of a supervised hip flexor stretching program on gait in elderly individuals
Jaclyn R Watt1, Keith Jackson, Jason R Franz
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
PM & R : the Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation
|April 19, 2011
Summary
A 10-week hip flexor stretching program improved walking function in healthy elderly adults. This intervention increased stride length and hip extension, while reducing pelvic tilt, suggesting a simple method to counteract age-related gait decline.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Age-related changes can lead to decreased mobility and increased risk of falls in elderly individuals.
- Limited hip extension and increased anterior pelvic tilt are common gait impairments in older adults.
- Targeted interventions may improve gait parameters and functional mobility in the elderly population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a 10-week supervised hip flexor stretching program.
- To determine if the program enhances peak hip extension, stride length, and gait speed.
- To assess the program's impact on reducing anterior pelvic tilt during walking in healthy elderly subjects.
Main Methods:
- A double-blinded, randomized controlled trial involving 82 healthy elderly participants.
- The treatment group engaged in a 10-week, twice-daily supervised hip flexor stretching program.
- The control group performed a 10-week shoulder abductor stretching program, with assessments in a gait laboratory.
Main Results:
- The hip flexor stretching group demonstrated significant improvements in passive hip extension range of motion.
- Participants with limited pre-stretching hip extension showed increased stride length and peak hip extension during walking.
- The treatment group also exhibited a significant reduction in anterior pelvic tilt during walking.
Conclusions:
- A 10-week supervised hip flexor stretching program effectively improved gait parameters in elderly adults with limited hip extension.
- The findings support the use of simple stretching programs to mitigate age-related declines in gait function.
- This intervention offers a practical approach to enhancing mobility and independence in older populations.
