The risk factors for development or progression of locomotive syndrome: a systematic review

Locomotive syndrome is a decline in mobility and is believed to occur before the occurrence of frailty and sarcopenia; therefore, early detection of risk factors is important. However, systematic reviews have not been conducted. A systematic review of observational studies was performed to identify risk factors for the development or progression of locomotive syndrome. We searched the electronic databases of MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Ichushi Web (in Japanese), and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Studies that used the development or progression of locomotive syndrome as an outcome and were written in English or Japanese were included. However, studies with nonadult participants and review articles were excluded. The quality of the eligible studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias instrument. This study included 79 observational studies (8 cohort and 71 cross-sectional studies). A meta-analysis was not performed. All studies were conducted in Japan. The eight cohort studies included 2,343 participants aged 57.0-79.3 years upon study initiation. The risk factors for developing locomotive syndrome were objectively assessed by parameters of motor function and muscle strength, such as short one-leg standing time and weak grip strength. The progression of locomotive syndrome was associated with the preoperative risk stage of locomotive syndrome and postoperative surgical failure syndrome. Locomotive syndrome can be detected through the regular assessment of motor function and muscle strength. To prevent locomotive syndrome in middle-aged and older people, an examination by an expert is necessary.