Muscle Forces and Joint Load Adaptations in Healthy Aging During Sit-to-Walk

As people live longer, maintaining mobility is crucial for independence and quality of life. Everyday tasks like standing up, walking, or rising from a chair rely on coordinated muscle strength, which declines with age, particularly in women. This thesis examined how individual muscles contribute to movement and joint loading during sit-to-walk in healthy adults of different ages and sexes. Using personalized muscle activation data and computer modeling, it identified key muscles, how older adults compensate for weaker muscles, and differences between men and women. The findings provide evidence to guide targeted, inclusive strategies for preserving safe, independent movement throughout life.