[Physio Explained] Muscle power, not strength, the key to falls prevention with Dr Mariana Wingood

Physio Network

In this episode with Mariana, we discuss a recent article looking at the difference between muscle power and muscle strength in predicting falls in older adults. This paper found the 5x sit to stand as a measure of power was a better predictor of falls compared to manual muscle testing or strength testing using a dynamometer. We discuss:

• The implications of this paper for our patients
• The difference and the relationship between muscle power and muscle strength
• Best tests to use to assess power output in your patients
• How you can use strength exercises to improve power in patients of all ages with and without equipment
• Importance of power and strength for balance training in this population

👉🏻 See Mariana’s full Research Review here - https://physio.network/reviews-wingood

Dr Mariana Wingood is a clinician, a program director of a CEU company that provides courses related to Geriatrics, and has a PhD on physical activity prescription among physical therapists.
Reference to article: Simpkins C, Yang F (2022) Muscle power is more important than strength in preventing falls in community-dwelling older adults. J Biomech, 134, 111018.

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