Balance interpedal asymmetry in older adults

In this worsheet are presented data on interpedal balance asymmetries in healthy older individuals from an evaluation based on the Equidyn protocol.
Background: Previous evidence of increased between-leg muscular strength asymmetry in older adults suggests the possibility of interlateral asymmetries of balance control in older individuals. In the current investigation, we evaluated interlateral asymmetries in older adults when performing quiet and dynamic balance tasks.
Methods: Fifty-two physically active and healthy older adults within the age range of 60 to 80 years were recruited. Participants performed balance tasks including quiet stance and cyclic sway of the free leg in the anteroposterior or mediolateral directions, with standardized amplitude and rhythm of leg movements. Trunk acceleration in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions was measured using a smartphone attached to the upper trunk for evaluating balance stability.
Results: Analysis revealed predominance of symmetric balance when comparing the right versus left or preferred versus nonpreferred legs, regardless of whether they were performing quiet stance or dynamic balance tasks. Further examination of the data showed high between-leg correlation coefficients across all tasks.
Conclusion: Our findings indicate a low degree of lateralization in balance control among older adults. As balance requires the coordination of the entire body, we suggest that both cerebral hemispheres are involved in regulating unipedal balance when supported on either leg.