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Effects of age on rapid ankle torque development
D G Thelen1, A B Schultz, N B Alexander
1Department of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
Summary
Older adults show significantly reduced ability to rapidly generate ankle torque, impacting balance recovery. This age-related decline affects both speed and maximum force, crucial for time-sensitive actions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Motor Control
Background:
- Rapid joint torque development is critical for balance restoration.
- Age-related changes may impair timely responses to balance disturbances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify age-related differences in rapid ankle joint torque production in healthy adults.
- Investigate how age affects the speed and magnitude of torque development.
Main Methods:
- Assessed ankle dorsiflexion (DF) and plantarflexion (PF) torque in young (23 yrs) and old (72 yrs) adults.
- Measured isometric and isokinetic (30-240 deg/sec) torque development, reaction times, and maximum rates of torque development (MRTD).
Main Results:
- Old adults took longer to reach target torques, with longer reaction times.
- Isometric MRTD was 25-36% lower in older adults, linked to reduced maximum isometric strength.
- Maximum isokinetic torques were 20-40% lower in older adults, with age-related losses increasing with velocity for DF.
Conclusions:
- Healthy older adults exhibit substantial declines in rapid ankle torque development.
- These age-related deficits may compromise the ability to recover balance or perform time-critical tasks.