Purpose. To report contemporary data on the daily frequency of the sit-to-stand (STS) movement in a healthy, independently living, adult population. Relevance. As a key determinant of functional independence, which has a high mechanical load, the STS movement is a common feature of rehabilitation. Knowledge of STS frequency during daily activities could inform rehabilitation goals and content, but has rarely been examined. To date, only McLeod et al. (1975) have investigated this, reporting an average of 92 daily STS transitions in healthy young participants. Methods. Fifteen healthy, free-living, ambulant adults (three males; mean age 40 years) were recruited from the general population. An activity monitor (activPALTM, PALtechnologies, Glasgow, UK) reported free-living activity for each subject for seven consecutive days. Analysis. The average number of STS transitions per day was calculated from the whole period. Data were separated into working and non-working days, and compared using a paired t-test. Results. On average, participants performed 64 (±19) STS movements each day, with large individual differences [range 35-105]. Participants performed significantly (p = 0.047) more STS movements on a working day [68 (±24)] than on a non-working day [55 (±17)]. Discussion. Fewer STS movements were recorded than previously reported (McLeod et al., 1975). This may reflect general changes in lifestyle; however, comparisons should consider the small samples involved and methodological differences. Conclusion. This study provides contemporary data for STS frequency and demonstrates a significant difference between working and non-working days. This information could guide rehabilitation and future research. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: Physiotherapy Research International)
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Physiotherapy Research International