Relationship between toe grip strength and dynamic balance in older adult patients with femoral neck fracture

[Purpose] Femoral neck fractures are a common problem resulting from balance impairment. Toe grip strength is related to balance function. This study aimed to confirm the type of balance function that is highly related to toe grip strength. [Participants and Methods] The participants included 15 patients who were examined for differences in toe grip strength between the affected and nonaffected side. The relationship between toe grip strength and functional balance scale (FBS) and index of postural stability (IPS) was analyzed. [Results] The result showed no significant difference between the nonaffected and affected sides. A correlation exists between toe grip strength and FBS and IPS. In addition, the data from the center-of-gravity sway meter showed a correlation only between the toe grip strength and anteroposterior diameter of the stable area but not between the right and left diameters of the stable area and anterior and posterior trajectory lengths. [Conclusion] No significant difference was found between the affected and nonaffected sides. The results suggest that toe grip strength is related to the ability to move the center of gravity forward and backward rather than to sustain the center of gravity.