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Cervical range of motion in the elderly
1Ohio State University, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Columbus.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|October 1, 1993
Summary
Elderly individuals exhibit significantly reduced cervical range of motion compared to young adults. This study highlights age-related declines in neck mobility and differences between sexes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Cervical range of motion (ROM) is crucial for daily activities.
- Age-related changes in musculoskeletal health can impact cervical ROM.
- Normative data for elderly populations are essential for clinical assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normative cervical range of motion values for the elderly.
- To compare cervical ROM in the elderly versus young adults.
- To assess sex-based differences in cervical ROM across age groups.
Main Methods:
- A gravity goniometer was utilized to measure six cardinal cervical motions.
- Participants included 42 elderly individuals (70-90 years) and 31 young adults (20-30 years).
- Statistical analysis compared ROM values between age groups and sexes.
Main Results:
- The elderly group demonstrated significantly lower cervical ROM across all six measured motions (p < .001).
- Elderly individuals showed approximately 12% less flexion, 32% less extension, 22% less lateral flexion, and 25% less rotation compared to young adults.
- A greater variation in cervical ROM values was observed in the elderly group; women exhibited higher ROM than men in both age cohorts.
Conclusions:
- Cervical range of motion significantly decreases with age.
- Normative data indicate substantial age-related deficits in neck mobility.
- Understanding these age and sex differences is vital for geriatric care and rehabilitation strategies.