Age-Related Differences in Peak Joint Torques During the Support Phase of Single-Step Recovery From a Forward Fall

Background. Previous studies have reported that older adults have a reduced ability to recover balance with a single step after a forward-induced fall. To better understand the reasons for this reduced ability, this study investigated any age-related differences in peak joint torques during the support phase of a single-step balance recovery from a forward fall. Methods. Ten young (19–23 years old) and 10 older (65–83 years old) men were released from forward-leaning positions and attempted to recover their balance with a single step. Lean was increased until they failed to recover their balance with a single step. Peak extensor torques were calculated for the support phase of balance recovery and were compared across age groups. Results. A consistent pattern of joint torques emerged during the support phase of balance recovery, suggesting a similar strategy across young and older participants. Despite this similarity, older participants exhibited smaller peak knee extensor torques during the support phase of single-step balance recoveries, and trends toward larger peak extensor torques at the hip and ankle. Conclusions. The age-related differences found are believed to be the combined result of an age-related reduction in muscle strength and an age-related neuromuscular adaptation to mitigate the effects of muscle strength loss on physical performance capabilities. FALLS are among the most common and costly medicalproblems to society. An estimated 14 million falls re