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At matched loads, aging does not alter ankle, muscle, or tendon stiffness
Kristen L Jakubowski1,2, Daniel Ludvig2,3, Sabrina S M Lee4
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|December 4, 2023
Summary
Older adults show decreased ankle, muscle, and tendon stiffness at matched effort due to age-related strength declines, not intrinsic mechanical property changes. This impacts balance and postural control in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Gerontology
- Musculoskeletal Physiology
Background:
- Maintaining balance is challenging for older adults during postural disturbances.
- Ankle stiffness, influenced by triceps surae and Achilles tendon, is crucial for balance.
- Previous studies on age-related Achilles tendon stiffness lacked matched load conditions, overlooking strength differences.
Conclusions:
- Age-related declines in muscle and tendon stiffness are primarily linked to reduced strength, not intrinsic mechanical property changes.
- Differences in strength, not stiffness, explain altered ankle, muscle, and tendon stiffness at matched effort levels.
- These findings highlight the importance of considering strength when assessing age-related changes in musculoskeletal mechanics.
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