Correlation between physical activity and hand grip strength in elderly with locomotive syndrome

Abstract

Background Locomotive syndrome (LS) is due to locomotive organ disorders which decrease mobility function, especially in the elderly. LS interferes with physical activity and is decreased in the elderly which could potentially decrease muscle strength. Hand grip strength (HGS) has been associated with overall strength and lower limb strength, but its correlation with physical activity in LS is unknown. Objectives This study aims to analyze the correlation between physical activity and HGS in elderly with LS. Methods 44 elderly were screened with Indonesian version of the Loco-check, a screening tool for LS. Physical activity was assessed with Indonesian version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form and HGS was assessed with a digital hand dynamometer respectively. The correlation between physical activity and HGS with Loco-check were analyzed using the Spearman correlation test. Results Significant correlation were found between physical activity with Loco-check in question number six (p = 0.027) and seven (p = 0.006), with a correlation coefficient of 0.333 and 0.407 respectively. No correlation was found between HGS with Loco-check, neither between physical activity with HGS. Conclusion There are positive correlations between physical activity and LS.