Effects of Forward Leaning Characteristics on  Protective Steps when Performing Voluntary- induced Stepping Response in Young and Older  Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Pornprom Chayasit; Rumpa Boonsinsukh

doi:10.33192/smj.v78i3.278066

Authors

Pornprom Chayasit Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakhon Nayok 26120, Thailand.
Rumpa Boonsinsukh Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakhon Nayok 26120, Thailand.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33192/smj.v78i3.278066

Keywords:

Postural balance, accidental falls, gait, health, motor activity

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effect of forward leaning distance and aging on protective step length, movement strategies, and postural stability during voluntary-induced stepping response (VSR).

Materials and Methods: Thirty healthy young adults (19.5 ± 0.7 years) and ten healthy older adults (68.9 ± 4.4 years) participated in a cross-sectional study. Young adults performed VSR under two conditions: short-distance (Ds) and long-distance (Dl), based on pelvis displacement ratios. Older adults performed VSR at their preferred leaning distance (Dp) and were instructed to recover balance with a single step. Protective step length, movement initiation and cessation strategies, and postural stability were assessed using 2D video analysis. Statistical comparisons were conducted using paired t-tests and chi-square tests (α = 0.05).

Results: Step length was significantly greater in Dl than Ds (p < 0.001). Older adults in Dp showed no significant difference in step length compared to young adults in Dl. However, older adults more frequently used trunk bending (28% versus 5% of trials), rigid body strategies (71% versus 30%), grasping (13% versus 0%), body sway, and multi-step responses (27% versus 3%) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Forward-leaning distance influences step length during VSR. Aging is linked to altered movement strategies and reduced postural control. These findings suggest that VSR may serve as a targeted intervention to enhance dynamic stability in older adults, supporting broader goals of health promotion and overall well-being.

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