earticle

영어

Background: This study was conducted in order to see if muscle strength is different according to fall experience in female elders by comparing their muscle strength of waist and knee, which is one of factors inducing fall. Method: For this study, 22 female elders aged over 65 sampled from senior centers in D City were surveyed on their fall experiences using a questionnaire asking clinical history. Then, 8 elders with fall experience (FE) and another 8 without (NFE) were selected and participated in the research. Isokinetic muscle strength was measured with isokinetic equipment BIODEX SYSTEM 3 PRO, and the peak torque was obtained from the highest of 9 measurements at angular velocity 60°/sec according to the method recommended in the manual. Measured items were waist flexion and extension, and knee flexion and extension. Results: The FE group showed higher extensor and flexor muscle strength of the waist, but the difference was not significant (p<.05). In addition, no difference was observed in extensor muscle strength of the knee (p<.05). In flexor muscle strength, however, the FE group was significantly higher than the NFE group (p<.05). Conclusion: The application of regular exercise programs for improving muscle strength, endurance, etc. to those with fall experience will be effective in preventing falls among them.