Age-related changes in the interactive mobility of the hip and knee joints: a geometrical analysis

Abstract

This study examined any systematic age-related change in the passive range of motion (PROM) of the hip and knee joints. Seventy-seven healthy male volunteers ranging in age from 15 to 73 years were assessed. A geometrical range of motion (ROM) analysis was applied, which could evaluate the effects of both monoarticular and biarticular muscles. The PROM of the hip joint decreased progressively with advancing age, whereas that of the knee joint remained unchanged. In addition, the interactive PROM of the hip and knee joint associated with biarticular rectus femoris and hamstring muscles also showed an age-related reduction. The progressive reduction of the ROM is probably caused by shortening of muscles or connective tissues due to reduced compliance of joint structures and degenerative changes in spinal alignment, as well as by diminished muscle stretching resulting from a decrease in daily physical activities with advancing age.