Decreased Plantar Tactile Sensation in the Midfoot and Heel is More Strongly Associated with Gait Variability than Age in Community-Dweling Older Adults

초록

Background: Plantar tactile sensation (PTS) is essential in maintaining postural stability and gait control in older adults. However, the relationship between age-related changes in PTS and gait variability remains unclear. Objectives: This study identified age-related differences in PTS and spa tiotemporal gait parameters, including gait variability, among community dweling older adults and determine the specific plantar regions with sensory impairment influencing gait parameters and variability. Design: Cross-sectional research. Methods: The 270 older adults were classified into three age groups: young older (65–74 years), middle-older (75–84 years), and old-older (≥85 years). PTS was assessed in six regions of the foot using the Semmes–Weinstein Monofilament test. Spatiotemporal gait parameters, including stance phase, double stance, stride length, step width, walking speed, cadence, and their variability, were measured. Results: Although no significant differences in PTS occurred across age groups, the oldest group had a significantly slower gait speed, shorter stride length, shorter step intervals, and a higher proportion of stance and double stance phases. Furthermore, greater variability was observed in all gait parameters. PTS at the midfoot and heel was significantly associated with variations in stance phase, single support, stride length, velocity, and cadence. Conclusion: In older adults, gait variability was more strongly associated with PTS in the midfoot and heel regions than with age. These findings suggest that sensory decline in the midfoot and heel may serve as a sensitive indicator for evaluating gait stability.

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