Características posturais de idosos praticantes de atividade física

Abstract

AIMS: The purposes of this study were to characterize and to describe the posture of elderly who practice physical activities. METHODS: Elderly participants of the Third Age Study Group at the Santa Catarina State University, between 60 and 80 years old, who practiced physical activity for at least two days a week, were studied. Data were obtained through computerized photogrammetry using the Postural Assessment Software (PAS/SAPO) in anterior, posterior and side views. Descriptive statistics were performed by using the mean and standard deviation. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 40 subjects, 34 women and six men. Postural characteristics in the anterior view were head rotation, lifting shoulders, scapula and pelvis, and internal rotation of the lower limbs; in the posterior view were right and left valgus hindfoot; and, in the side view, were the head forward, backward inclination of the trunk, hip extension, pelvic anteversion and flexed knees. CONCLUSIONS: Some postural features observed in seniors engaged in physical activity were similar to those found in normal aging. However, inclination of trunk backward and extension of the hip differed from the typical flexor posture of the elderly. We believe that these features are a consequence of physical exercises that promote the strengthening of the extensor muscles, important for maintaining the correct posture.