The Effect of Localized Upper Extremity Fatigue on Balance in Young and Older Adults

Abstract Aim This study investigated the effects of upper extremity muscle fatigue on dynamic and static balance in young and old populations. Methods Static and dynamic balance was assessed in 20 males before and after an upper extremity (UE) fatigue protocol. Fatigue was achieved using an arm crank ergometer protocol, which consisted of 3-minute intervals of UE exercise, increasing by 25 watts in a range of 70-80 rpms, until exhaustion. Results The UE fatigue protocol did not negatively impact dynamic or static balance levels in either young or old populations. In fact, UE fatigue was shown to have a positive influence on dynamic balance in the posterolateral direction in the young population. Conclusion Although old population demonstrated preexisting balance impairments, UE exercise does not appear to further impair balance. Additionally, the influence on dynamic balance after UE fatigue in the young population may indicate a possible priming effect.