ASSOCIATION OF ULTRASONOGRAPHIC MEASUREMENTS OF UPPER ARM AND THIGH MUSCLE THICKNESS WITH FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY AND BALANCE IN ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS

Abstract

Introduction: Muscle loss is associated with increased frailty in the geriatric population. In this study, we aimed to explore the association of ultrasonographic measurements of extremity muscle thickness with functional capacity, balance and falls. Materials and Method: Fifty patients aged >65 years were enrolled. Upper arm and thigh muscle thicknesses were measured using ultrasound, and hand grip strength was measured using a handheld dynamometer. The functional capacity of lower extremity was assessed on the basis of walking speed and a chair stand test. The timed up and go test and four square step test were used to evaluate dynamic balance. The fear of falling was assessed using Tinetti's Scale. Results: The mean age of patients was 71.8 +/- 5.7 years. Measurements of the thigh muscle thickness of patients were negatively correlated with walking speed, timed up and go test, four square step test and the fear of falling (p<0.01) and positively with chair stand test (p<0.05) and hand grip strength (p<0.001). Hand grip strength was positively correlated with chair stand test and negatively with walking speed, timed up and go test, four square step test and Tinetti's scores (p<0.01). Measurements of upper arm muscle thickness were positively correlated with hand grip strength (p<0.01). Conclusion: Ultrasonographic assessment of lower extremity muscle thickness seems to improve the predictability of decline in functional capacity and loss of balance, possibly contributing to prevention of falls in the elderly.