Lifting Strategy and Stability in Strength-Impaired Elders

Abstract

Subjects apparently chose their lift strategy based on their hip and knee extensor strength. Weaker elders using a less stable back dominant strategy could be susceptible to falls and subsequent long bone and vertebral body fractures. Clinicians could identify at-risk elders by muscle testing. Beyond emphasizing strength and endurance exercise in elderly patients, weak elders should be taught to use a leg dominant lifting strategy, or if they are not physically able, to use a combined back/leg strategy.