Assessment of Flexibility and Balance in Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Menopause refers to the period after when a women's menstrual cycle stops completely. Loss of follicular activity of the ovaries results in permanent cessation of menstruation which is referred as menopause. The menopausal age ranges between 45–55 years, average being 50 years. Reduced flexibility and strength in postmenopausal women can lead to various biomechanical changes and altered postures. To maintain balance, the body has different ways to adjust its position so that center of mass stays over base of support. As performance and activities in daily living have reduced assessment of flexibility has become important. Lack of flexibility leads to problem like lower back pain and lower limb tightness. Sit and reach test is most widely used for assessment of flexibility it represents hamstring, hip, and lower back flexibility.