Simulated knee flexion contracture effect on postural stability in elderly people

Background: Postural instability is one of the common problems of aging. However, with increased age many systems of body such as musculoskeletal system are affected and changed. One of these changes is knee flexion contracture. The study aimed to investigate the simulated knee flexion contracture effects on postural stability in elderly. Materials and Methods: 15 elderly subjects (11 men, 4 women) participated in this study. Postural stability at 0 and 30 degree of knee joints was evaluated utilizing of two rehabilitation knee braces (adaptable knee range of motion control brace). In 0 degree, braces did not cause any constraint whereas for knee joint in 30 degree, contracture was simulated so knee joints were in 30 degree flexion and extension not allowed. Postural stability in standing position with eyes open and closed were assessed by a force platform . COP data were analyzed to describe the stability of elderly persons. Results: Result of this study showed that COP parameters in eyes closed condition were significantly increased (P < 0.05). In addition, these results showed that in 0 degree with eyes open, postural sway was in minimum range; and in 30 degree simulated knee flexion contracture (KFC) with closed eyes, postural sway was maximum. Conclusion: This study concluded that postural stability of elderly people was affected by knee flexion contracture, a condition which stability was diminished and defected