Effects of plantar sensitivity on balance and mobility in community-dwelling older adults: A Turkish study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of regional plantar tactile sensitivity with balance and mobility in community-dwelling older people.

METHODS

Fifty-five older adults (39 women and 16 men) mean age 73.5 ± 6.5 years participated in the study. Plantar tactile sensitivity was assessed at nine regions of the foot using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. Balance and mobility of the subjects were evaluated with Berg Balance Scale and Rivermead Mobility Index, respectively.

RESULTS

Plantar tactile sensitivity was not significantly correlated with balance and mobility scores. No significant differences were obtained when balance and mobility scores were compared between subjects with and without plantar sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that plantar tactile sensory was not associated with balance and mobility functions in older adults. This result may be related to the protection of other sensory systems supporting the maintenance of balance and mobility functions in physically active community-dwelling older people.