Distal‐to‐proximal joint mechanics redistribution is a main contributor to reduced walking economy in older adults

Abstract

Age‐related neural and musculoskeletal declines affect mobility and the quality of life of older adults. To date, the mechanisms underlying reduced walking economy in older adults still remain elusive. In this study, we wanted to investigate which biomechanical factors were associated with the higher energy cost of walking in older compared with young adults. Fourteen younger (24 ± 2 years) and fourteen older (74 ± 4 years) adults were tested. Plantarflexor strength and Achilles tendon stiffness were evaluated during a dynamometer test. Medial gastrocnemius fascicle length, ground reaction forces, joint kinematics, and oxygen consumption were measured during walking treadmill at 0.83 and 1.39 m.s−1. Energy cost of walking, lower‐limb joint mechanics, muscle‐tendon unit, and tendinous tissues length were calculated. The energy cost of walking was higher at 0.83 m.s‐1 (+16%; P = .005) and plantarflexor strength lower (−31%; P = .007) in older adults. Achilles tendon stiffness and medial gastrocnemius fascicle length changes did not differ between older and young adults. The reduction in ankle mechanics was compensated by increases in hip mechanics in older adults during walking. The hip extensor moment was the only significant predictor of the energy cost of walking (adjusted R2: 0.35‐0.38). The higher energy cost in older adults is mainly associated with their distal‐to‐proximal redistribution of joint mechanics during walking possibly due to plantarflexor weakness. In our study, medial gastrocnemius fascicle and tendinous tissue behavior did not explain the higher energy cost of walking in older compared to young adults.

Actuation Strategies for a Wearable Cable-Driven Exosuit Based on Synergies in Younger and Older Adults

“…This reduction when walking shows a change in walking strategy made by older people who tend to transmit forces through the hip joint by developing greater torques. These findings have been described as a limiting factor for elderly adults as they are obliged to adjust their walking pattern as the gait speed increases [ 11 , 12 , 13 ] or when climbing stairs [ 49 ].…”

“…The main changes in walking mechanics are manifested by a decrease in the ankle and hip joint torques [ 1 , 10 , 11 ]. This reduced ability to generate joint torques has been described as a limiting factor in walking speed and a modifier of walking patterns [ 12 , 13 ]. In addition, reduced motor ability has been described as a factor in musculoskeletal disorders and injuries [ 14 ].…”

Quantitative evaluation of the Achilles tendon and supraspinatus tendon in end‐stage kidney disease patients: A potential tool for predicting spontaneous tendon rupture

“…It was theorized that with age, the stiffness of tendons might decrease due to mucoid degeneration and the loss of organized collagen fibrils [26]. However, a series of clinical research results found no significant correlation between the stiffness of the Achilles tendon and other tendons and age in healthy people of different ages [27, 28]. At the same time, we also included age in the subsequent multiple linear regression analysis, finding that age was not a significant influencing factor.…”

Aging-friendly cities: Investigating the effects of street usage on the psychological satisfaction of older adults in megacities

“…Psychological satisfaction of older adults is also widely regarded as a predictor of social inclusion because psychological satisfaction can be enhanced by increasing the mobility and independence of vulnerable groups within the built environment ( Chen et al, 2019 ; Zhang et al, 2022 ). Thus, many studies have explored the wellbeing of older adults in the development process of cities and regions from the perspectives of community support and health services ( Sexton and Bedford, 2016 ), family pressure ( Santis, 2012 ), voluntary or paid work ( Sagherian et al, 2021 ), and consumption and economy ( Delabastita et al, 2021 ). Studies have all acknowledged that progress in the built environment correlates with improved psychological wellbeing for older adults.…”