Effects of Gluteus Medius on Balance and Mobility of Community Dwellers

Research Objectives: To investigate the muscle activation of gluteus medius (GM) in subjects from 30-69 years during mobility and balance testing

Design: Descriptive study as subjects were stratified by age and exercise level. sEMG data was taken while subjects performed mobility and balance tests.

Setting: General community testing

Participants: Volunteer sample. Exclusions included orthopedic or neurological issues that interfered with balance and mobility. Screening using the Mini Mental State Exam and activity level using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. 30-39 years N = 26, 40-49 years N =25, 50-59 years N = 30, 60-69 years N = 31, total N = 112.

Interventions: sEMG was placed on GM and recorded as the participants were scored on the Community Balance Measure Scale (CBMS).

Main Outcome Measures: sEMG mean activation, CBMS, & exercise frequency. Statistical analysis with p value of p<.05.

Results: Dual task and single limb support tasks of  CBMS positively  correlated with GM activation 30-69 yrs (p=.0195 to .05). There was a significant decrease in GM activation in the 60s and by decade (p=.043). No significant correlation was displayed between GM activation & age 30—69 yrs. CBMS scores significantly decreased between those who did & did not exercise at both 3x/week exercise & 5x/week by decade (p=.000). A significant increase noted in GM activation for those who exercised 3x/week in dual task activities 30-69 yrs (p=.0081 to .03). A significant increase displayed in GM activation for those who exercised 5x/week or more 30-69 yrs. and by decade ( p=.000 to .0172).

Conclusions: The average GM activation and CBMS scores decreased with age suggesting a decrease in balance. Improved balance was found in individuals that participated in higher amounts of exercise. Those who exercised less than 3x/week showed decreased GM activation and decreased balance. Consistent exercise is very important for 50 and 60-year-olds. The type of exercise varied but consistent frequent physical activity appeared to be the most positive factor that affected balance.

Author(s) Disclosures: There are no conflicts of interest for any of the authors of this research.