Waist circumference is associated with locomotive syndrome in elderly females

Background

Central obesity has been proved to be a strong risk factor for numerous health-related problems as well as mortality. However, there have been no studies on the relationship between central obesity and locomotive syndrome (LS). The present study investigated the influence of central obesity on LS.

Methods

A total of 217 females between the ages of 60 and 79 years (mean 68.2 ± 5.0 years) who completed the questionnaires, physical examination and physical performance tests in the Yakumo study in 2011–2012 were enrolled in this study. Participants were assessed according to the 25-Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25), visual analog scale (VAS) for lower back pain (LBP) and knee pain, and the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ). LS was defined as having a score of >16 points on the GLFS-25. Height, weight, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference, % body fat and bone mineral density were measured. Body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio were calculated. The timed up-and-go test, one-leg standing time with eyes open, 10-m gait time and maximum stride were assessed. Back muscle strength and grip strength were measured. The relationships between obesity-related parameters and GLFS-25, RDQ, VAS and physical performance tests were analyzed.

Results

The GLFS-25, LBP and knee pain showed significant correlation with most of obesity-related parameters. Among obesity-related parameters, WC was most strongly related to the GLFS-25, LBP and knee pain. When participants were stratified by WC, larger WC was significantly associated with a higher GLFS-25 score, higher prevalence of LS and higher VAS for LBP and knee pain as well as poorer results in some physical performance tests even after adjustment by age.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that central obesity is significantly associated with LS, and WC can be a useful parameter to assess the risk of LS in elderly women.