Year: 2024 | Month: October-December | Volume: 9 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 27-54
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/gijhsr.20240403
Peripheral and Central Contributions to Age-Related Proprioceptive Decline, Clinical Implications and Management
Lili Silumesii1
1Department of Physiotherapy, DDT College of Medicine, Gaphatshwa, Botswana.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Proprioception is the body’s ability to perceive its position and movement in space, crucial for maintaining balance and coordination, especially in older adults. As individuals age, both peripheral and central mechanisms of proprioception decline. Peripheral contributions include sensory mechanisms in muscle spindles and cutaneous mechanoreceptors, vital for joint position sense. This decline can lead to balance disturbances and increased fall risk. Central contributions involve neuroanatomical changes, neurochemical alterations, and cognitive factors such as decreased memory, obstructing effective proprioceptive integration.
Methods: The search utilised key databases such as PubMed, PubMed Central (PMC) BioMed Central (BMC) along with various grey literature sources, to gather a comprehensive range of information.
Clinical implications: Impaired proprioception can decrease postural control and balance, increasing fall risk and associated chronic pain conditions.
Interventions: Evidence highlights the effectiveness of technological advancements, personalised physical activity programmes, and proprioceptive training strategies. Collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals are vital for creating comprehensive care plans.
Conclusion: Age-related proprioceptive decline significantly impacts balance and functional independence in older adults. Effective interventions to preserve proprioceptive function and reduce fall risk are crucial. A multifaceted approach that includes targeted training and interdisciplinary collaboration can enhance outcomes and support a more active life for older individuals. Future research should address literature gaps through longitudinal studies and randomised controlled trials to evaluate intervention effectiveness and advancements in technologies like virtual reality. A holistic approach involving interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential.
Keywords: Proprioception, ageing, balance, risk of falls, proprioception interventions