Abstract

Background. Proprioception is the internal sense that assists an individual in learning a motor task and executing it seamlessly. Generally, a proprioception deficit is tested by measuring degrees of error in repositioning a joint or limb in space. Most of the measures use single-joint movement and, on a few occasions, multi-joint movements are tested with high-tech instrumentation in a laboratory setting. Multi-joint testing can reflect the impact of a proprioception deficit in functional activity. We used a novel method to test proprioception as a functional activity.

Aim. The study aims to analyse the functional proprioception in the lower limbs of younger and older adults.

Methodology. Thirty-seven younger and thirty-seven older adults were tested for proprioception in lower limbs with a target-reaching task. The participant was given a target point to touch with the great toe with eyes open. Following the trial, they were asked to touch the target with their eyes closed. The error in distance was measured in centimetres for three attempts. The minimal error was taken for analysis.

Result. The result shows that a mean error of around 2.6 cm and 5.7 to 6 cm is present in young and older adults respectively. There was no difference with respect to the side noted in the young adults, but the left side of adults shows a marginally higher error compared to the right side.

Conclusion. Functional proprioception differs among young and older adults. Multi-joint proprioception can provide different insights into an individual’s ability to use proprioception effectively.

Keywords

proprioception, multi-joint testing, younger adults, older adults