Assessment of leg muscle power in community-dwelling elderly subjects using a standard set of stairs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the usefulness of the stair-climbing power test as a field test using a standard set of stairs to assess the leg power of community-dwelling elderly subjects. This study included 24 male subjects (mean age=76±6 yr) and 23 female subjects (mean age=77±6 yr). The stair-climbing power was measured using a standard set of stairs. This study examined leg extensor power and isometric knee extension strength. The stair-climbing power correlated with the leg extensor power (r=0.683, p<0.01 and r=0.492, p<0.05 in males and females, respectively) and knee extension strength (r=0.663, p<0.01 and r=0.631, p<0.001 in males and females, respectively). This study suggests that the stair-climbing power test as a field test is a valid means for assessing the functional power levelsof the lowerextremitiesin community-dwelling elderly people.