Ankle joint mobility impact for elder people balance performance

Abstract

Research background. Human postural control is a very complex system integrating various sensory and motor elements. Balance is the result of this multimodal function involving vision, the vestibular system, brain and proprioception. Among the joints associated with gait and balance, the ankle plays a primary role in the maintenance of postural stability. Ankle proprioception is one of the primary regulatory mechanisms for stabilization of the body. Research aim. To assess the impact of ankle joint mobility for elder people balance performance. Research method. Objectives: 1. To assess the ankle joint range of motion elder people before and after joint mobilization and calf muscle stretching. 2. To assess static and dynamic balance of elder people before and after ankle joint mobilization and calf muscle stretching. Methods. In this research participated 31 participants (28 women and 3 men). Participants inclusion criterion was" 1) age range from 60 to 70 yeras old; 2) didn\t have ankle and lower leg fractures, complete ankle ligaments ruptures in life history; 3) without cerebrovascular disorders (circulatory failure, stroke, hearing impairment and cochlear disorders); 4) without contraindications for mobilization (rheumatoid arthritis, joint hypermobility). [...].