Elder Chinese Martial Art Practitioners Have Higher Radial Bone Strength, Hand-Grip Strength, and Better Standing Balance Control

Shirley S M Fong,Shamay S M Ng,X Guo,William W N Tsang,Alice P M Cheung,Dennis K C Mo,Gary K W Lui,Alex T L Jo

doi:10.1155/2013/185090

Shirley S M Fong, Shamay S M Ng + Show 6 more

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https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/185090

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Abstract

This study explored the feasibility of using Ving Tsun (VT) martial art as a fall-prevention exercise for male seniors. We compared the radial bone strength, hand-grip strength, and standing balance control of senior VT practitioners and nonpractitioners under various sensory environments. Sixteen male VT practitioners (mean age ± SD: years) and 17 sex- and age-matched control adults (mean age ± SD: years) participated in the study. The bone strength of the distal radius, hand-grip strength, and standing balance control were assessed using an ultrasound bone sonometer, a Jamar dynamometer, and sensory organization test (SOT) on the NeuroCom Balance Master, respectively. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to compare the outcome variables between the two groups. Results revealed that VT practitioners had significantly higher radial bone strength (-score) on the dominant side (), hand-grip strength (dominant side, ; nondominant side, ), and standing balance control (SOT composite equilibrium score, ) than the control participants. Male elder VT practitioners had higher radial bone strength, hand-grip strength, and better standing balance control than nonpractitioners. Our findings shed light on the use of VT exercise to prevent falls and fall-related fractures of the distal radius in male elders.

Highlights

Falls among the elderly are common and a global cause of morbidity and mortality
Thirty-three male older adults participated in the study, 16 of whom were advanced Ving Tsun (VT) practitioners
There was no significant difference between the two groups in age, body height, or weight (Table 1)

Summary

Introduction

Falls among the elderly are common and a global cause of morbidity and mortality. It has been reported that there are over 400 potential risk factors for falling [1]. Improving bone and muscular strength and postural stability using exercises could reduce fall risks and fall-related injuries (e.g., the fracture of the distal radius) [9, 10], improving the quality of life experienced by the elderly [8, 11]. Ample studies have investigated the effects of fallprevention programs (e.g., Tai Chi) on improving physical impairments (e.g., decreased bone and muscular strength), functioning (e.g., body balance) and reducing falls or fall risk among elderly women [12,13,14,15]. Studies have been called for to design treatment strategies for elderly men [16]

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