Optimizing Neuromuscular Strategies of Ankle Muscles During Static and Proactive Postural Control in Senior Individuals with Sarcopenia and Obesity: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Trial Study Protocol

Author(s): Elmoetez Magtouf, Hamza Ferhi, Sabri Gaied Chortane, Oussama Gaied Chortane, Bruno Beaune, Sébastien Boyas, Sylvain Durand, and Wael Maktouf

The rising prevalence of sarcopenic obesity (SO) among older adults— characterized by an increase in obesity rates coupled with a decline in muscle mass—presents a significant health challenge. This condition adversely affects postural control and neuromuscular functions, which are crucial for performing daily activities. Despite the critical impact of SO, there has been scant research on the benefits of customized physical activity programs aimed to improve postural stability and neuromuscular performance in this demographic. This study protocol outlines a comprehensive evaluation of a physical activity program designed to enhance these capacities in older adults with SO. Employing a single-blinded, prospective, randomized, and controlled multicenter trial design, participants will be divided into a trained group (TG) and a control group (CG). While the CG will receive no intervention, the TG will engage in a targeted 4-month physical activity program, consisting of tri-weekly sessions. Evaluation metrics include anthropometric data, clinical assessments, ankle muscle activities during postural control testing, and maximal voluntary contraction tests of the plantar and dorsal flexor muscles. The anticipated outcomes of this study promise to shed light on the potential for improving postural control and neuromuscular functions in older adults with SO, offering critical insights into the effectiveness of tailored physical activity interventions.