A survey regarding locomotive syndrome in “Locomo 25”and physical characteristics

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to clarify the physical characteristics of females with locomotive syndrome (Locomo 25) aged <65 years and living in the region. The subjects were 31 females, aged 20 to 64 years, living in the region. Using “Locomo 25” as a test, we evaluated 5 items for physical function assessment and body composition (trunk muscle volume/upper limb muscle volume/lower limb muscle volume/bone mineral density/ skeletal muscle mass index (SMI)). The results were compared between locomo (n=12) and non-locomo (n=19) groups, to which the subjects were assigned based on “Locomo 25”. In the former, the height was significantly lower, and the SMI, as well as the upper/lower limb and trunk muscle volumes, which were evaluated as parameters of the body composition, were significantly lower. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the bone mineral density or any item for physical function assessment between the two groups. These results showed that there was a reduction in the muscle volume in <65year-old females regarded as having locomotive syndrome using “Locomo 25”, although there was no reduction in the physical function, suggesting the necessity of adequate exercise and lifestyle guidance in the early stage.