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Citation |
do Rosario JT, da Fonseca Martins NS, Peixinho CC, Oliveira LF. J. Aging Phys. Act. 2016; 25(2): 228-233. |
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Affiliation |
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 2016, Human Kinetics Publishers) |
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DOI |
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PMID |
27684891 |
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Abstract |
This study aimed to determine the effects of a functional training and ankle stretching program in triceps surae torque, passive stiffness index and in risk for fall indicators in older adults. Twenty women (73.4 ± 7.3 years) were allocated into intervention or control group. The 12-week intervention consisted of functional training and calf stretching exercises performed twice a week. Measurements of peak passive and active torque, passive stiffness, maximum dorsiflexion angle and indexes of risk for fall (Timed Up and go, Functional reach test e QuickScreen-test) were collected. There were no significant differences for all variables, except the maximum dorsiflexion angle, which increased in the intervention group from 33.78 ± 8.57° to 38.89 ± 7.52°. The exercise program was not sufficient to enhance performance on functional tests and decrease the risk for falls of older adults. The significant increase in the maximum dorsiflexion indicates a positive impact of stretching exercises. Language: en |