Skin biomechanical properties and leg volume in aging healthy adults

BACKGROUND: In adults ageing is accompanied by changes in limb volume and skin biomechanical properties. OBJECTIVES: To explore the relationship between body size, aging, skin biomechanics, and leg volume, V (Leg) and to define predictive equations linking leg volume with these properties. METHODS: Sixty‐two healthy adults (Age 18–80 years, M:F 45:55) were recruited. Anthropomorphic measures were recorded along with V (Leg) (via circumferential method) and skin tone, stiffness, and elastance (via tonometry). Regression analysis was performed to define relationship between the measured parameters. RESULTS: In healthy adults bilateral V (Leg) were the same regardless of leg or sex, 5791 ± 1363 for females and 6151 ± 1203 mls for males. V (Leg) was positively correlated to body weight, where V (Leg) (mls) = 1058 + 69 × Wt (kg) for females and V (Leg) (mls) = 539 + 65 × Wt (Kg) of body weight for males. Skin surface biomechanical properties varied with sex, leg volume, and location on the leg with the malleolus exhibiting the stiffest surface. CONCLUSION: The study shows that anthropometric measures change with sex and leg size are multifactorial and body weight, sex, and skin condition as important determinant factors of leg volume.