Follmer E, LeCluyse M, Scott J, Cooke D; Rockhurst University, Department of Physical Therapy Education, Kansas City, MO. jescott14@hotmail.com.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of an exercise program to increase ankle range of motion (ROM) on balance in community dwelling older women. Previous work by Mecgani et al (2000) found a relationship between ankle ROM and performance on measures of balance during ambulation (POMA) and forward reaching (FR). An additional purpose of our study was to determine the duration of an exercise program necessary to influence performance on balance measures. SUBJECTS: Candidates were screened at a local community center and church to meet the criteria of active ankle dorsiflexion of 5° or less on one side. Ten women between the ages of 62 – 84 qualified and agreed to participate. METHODS: The participants underwent two baseline measurements, two weeks apart, which included a measurement of active ankle dorsiflexion, a 25-foot walk, a single leg stance test, and a static balance and limits of stability test performed on a Balance Master. After the second baseline measurement, participants were instructed in a standing calf stretch to be performed for 30 seconds, 4 times on each leg, 5 days a week for 5 weeks. Two post-tests, consisting of the above measures, were performed at week 3 and 5, with the exception of the Balance Master tests, which were performed at the second baseline and week 5. ANALYSIS: Analysis was performed on data from nine subjects, as one subject failed to return for final post-test measurements. A repeated measure ANOVA was used to examine data from active ankle ROM, timed walk, and single leg stance measures with post hoc analysis using paired t-tests. Paired t-tests were used to analyze limits of stability and static sway variables. RESULTS: No significant differences were found with left ankle ROM, timed walk maximum speed, single leg stance, limits of stability, and static balance measures. A significant increase for right ankle dorsiflexion was found at p = .017 after 3 weeks with no significant differences between weeks 3 and 5. A significant change in comfortable walking speed was found at p = .003 at week 3 with no significant differences between weeks 3 and 5. CONCLUSIONS: Both right ankle ROM and comfortable walking speed increased significantly in the first 3 weeks of the stretching program. Increased ankle dorsiflexion may improve foot placement thereby increasing step length. Further study of the effects of a stretching program beyond 5 weeks is indicated. FUNDING SOURCE: Rockhurst University, Department of Physical Therapy Education.

Copyright 2004 by the American Physical Therapy Association

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