ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Social distancing has led to lifestyle changes among older adults during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence risk of sarcopenia (RS) and investigate its associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in older Brazilian adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional observational analysis of baseline data as part of the Remobilize Study. METHODS: Participants in the study were older adults (≥ 60 years), excluding those who were bedridden or institutionalized. The data collected consisted of answers about the RS (SARC-F), functional status, walking, sedentary behavior (SB), pain, comorbidity, and life space mobility. RESULTS: A total of 1,482 older adults (70 ± 8.14 years, 74% women) participated in the study, and an RS prevalence of 17.1% was found. (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.25–19.15%). The adjusted multivariate model showed a significant association between RS and functional limitation (odds ratio [OR]: 19.05; CI 13.00–28.32), comorbidity (OR: 5.11; CI 3.44–7.81), pain (OR: 4.56; CI 3.33–6.28), total walking (OR: 0.99; CI 0.99–1.00), SB of 8–10 hours (OR: 1.85; CI 1.15–2.93), and SB of > 10 hours (OR: 3.93; CI 2.48–6.22). RS was associated with mobility during the pandemic (OR: 0.97; CI 0.96–0.98). P < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: During the pandemic, the prevalence of RS in older Brazilians was estimated at 17.1%. Moderate to severe functional limitation, comorbidities, presence of pain, walking, longer SB period, and reduced life space mobility significantly contributed to RS in older adults during the pandemic.

RESUMO Fragilidade e sarcopenia são consideradas síndromes geriátricas que apresentam grande prevalência e complexidade e são de difícil diagnóstico e tratamento. Ainda não existe consenso quanto ao melhor programa de exercícios resistidos, especialmente quando se considera a fragilidade e a sarcopenia. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a efetividade de um programa de carga na massa muscular e na classificação de fragilidade em idosas sarcopênicas. Participaram 18 idosas sarcopênicas, com idade a partir de 65 anos, que completaram um programa de carga progressiva. A intervenção utilizou o cálculo de 75% de uma repetição máxima (1RM) para cada participante (3 vezes/semana, por 12 semanas). Antes da intervenção, 16,7% foram consideradas frágeis e 61,1% pré-frágeis; após, 5,6% passaram a ser consideradas frágeis e 50% pré-frágeis. Os resultados mostraram que a intervenção alterou a classificação de fragilidade e aumentou a massa muscular das idosas (p=0,01). Observou-se diminuição nos itens de classificação da fragilidade e consequente melhora no perfil funcional, havendo o aumento da porcentagem daquelas consideradas não frágeis após a intervenção (p=0,01). Conclui-se que o programa de exercício resistido progressivo é provavelmente uma das melhores estratégias para prevenir a fragilidade e a sarcopenia. Desta forma, recomenda-se o seu uso na prática clínica diária para melhorar a massa muscular e diminuir o status de fragilidade em mulheres sarcopênicas.

ABSTRACT Frailty and sarcopenia are geriatric syndromes highly prevalent, complex, and hard to diagnose and treat. The literature still lacks a consensus on which resistance training program is better for older people, especially when considering frailty status and sarcopenia. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a progressive resistance training program on muscle mass and frailty status in older sarcopenic women. This study included 18 community-dwelling sarcopenic women aged 65 or older enrolled in the progressive resistance training program. The intervention was based on 75% of each subject’s maximum repetition test (3 times/week, for 12 weeks). Before the intervention, 16.7% were frail, and 61.1% were pre-frail; after the intervention, 5.6% were frail, and 50% were pre-frail. The result shows that the intervention reduced frailty status and increased muscle mass (p=0.01). Hence, after the intervention, we observed both a decrease in frailty and a positive change in function, since the percentage of robust women increased twice (p=0.01). We conclude that the progressive resistance training program might be the best strategy to prevent frailty and sarcopenia. Therefore, we suggest using weight resistance training in daily clinical practice to improve muscle mass and decrease frailty status in sarcopenic women.

RESUMEN La fragilidad y la sarcopenia son síndromes geriátricos de alta prevalencia y complejidad, además de ser de difícil diagnóstico y tratamiento. Todavía no hay un consenso sobre el programa de ejercicios de fuerza más indicado, especialmente teniendo en cuenta la fragilidad y la sarcopenia. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la efectividad de un programa de carga sobre la masa muscular y la clasificación de la fragilidad en ancianas con sarcopenia. Participaron 18 ancianas con sarcopenia, de más de 65 años y que completaron un programa de carga progresiva. La intervención utilizó el cálculo del 75% de repetición máxima (1RM) para cada participante (3 veces/semana, durante 12 semanas). Antes de la intervención, el 16,7% de las participantes se consideraban frágiles y el 61,1% prefrágiles; después de la intervención, el 5,6% se consideraban frágiles y el 50% prefrágiles. Los resultados mostraron que la intervención produjo cambios en la clasificación de la fragilidad y aumentó la masa muscular de las ancianas (p=0,01). Hubo una reducción en los ítems de clasificación de la fragilidad y una mejora en el perfil funcional, con un aumento del porcentaje de aquellas consideradas no frágiles después de la intervención (p=0,01). Se concluye que el programa de ejercicios de fuerza progresiva se mostró una de las mejores estrategias para prevenir la fragilidad y la sarcopenia. Por tanto, se recomienda aplicarlo en la práctica clínica cotidiana para mejorar la masa muscular y disminuir el estado de fragilidad de mujeres con sarcopenia.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Social distancing has led to lifestyle changes among older adults during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence risk of sarcopenia (RS) and investigate its associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in older Brazilian adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional observational analysis of baseline data as part of the Remobilize Study. METHODS: Participants in the study were older adults (≥ 60 years), excluding those who were bedridden or institutionalized. The data collected consisted of answers about the RS (SARC-F), functional status, walking, sedentary behavior (SB), pain, comorbidity, and life space mobility. RESULTS: A total of 1,482 older adults (70 ± 8.14 years, 74% women) participated in the study, and an RS prevalence of 17.1% was found. (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.25–19.15%). The adjusted multivariate model showed a significant association between RS and functional limitation (odds ratio [OR]: 19.05; CI 13.00–28.32), comorbidity (OR: 5.11; CI 3.44–7.81), pain (OR: 4.56; CI 3.33–6.28), total walking (OR: 0.99; CI 0.99–1.00), SB of 8–10 hours (OR: 1.85; CI 1.15–2.93), and SB of > 10 hours (OR: 3.93; CI 2.48–6.22). RS was associated with mobility during the pandemic (OR: 0.97; CI 0.96–0.98). P < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: During the pandemic, the prevalence of RS in older Brazilians was estimated at 17.1%. Moderate to severe functional limitation, comorbidities, presence of pain, walking, longer SB period, and reduced life space mobility significantly contributed to RS in older adults during the pandemic.

Abstract Aim: Low back pain (LBP) is disabling in older adults. Although physical activity interventions positively affect LBP, older adults are underrepresented in the literature. We aim to investigate the feasibility of conducting a study to evaluate a primary care program of exercise therapy and pain education, supported by mobile technology, for older adults with chronic LBP (compared to best practice advice). Methods: In this parallel, two-arm randomized pilot trial, we will recruit adults aged 60 years and older with chronic LBP. The experimental group (Physical Activity supported by low-cost mobile technology for Back pain-PAT-Back) will consist of an 8-week group exercise program based on pain education, exercises, graded activities, and in-home physical activity. Text messages will be sent to promote adherence to home exercises. The control group will receive an evidence-based educational booklet given during one individual consultation. Outcomes will include recruitment rate, adherence and retention rates, level of understanding of the intervention content, perception of the utility of mobile technology, compliance with the accelerometer in a sub-sample of patients, and adverse events. Discussion: The results of this study will form the basis for a large randomized controlled trial. This innovative approach to managing LBP in the primary care setting for older adults, if proven to be effective, can bring an important advance in the knowledge of chronic LBP management to this population.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Patients with low back pain frequently undergo a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, but some of these have uncertain effectiveness. This highlights the importance of the association of healthcare services and therapeutic measures relating to disability. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures among Brazilian older adults with disability-related low back pain. DESIGN AND SETTING: Observational cross-sectional study on baseline assessment data from the Back Complaints in the Elders - Brazil (BACE-B) cohort. METHODS: The main analyses were based on a consecutive sample of 602 older adult participants in BACE-B (60 years of age and over). The main outcome measurement for disability-related low back pain was defined as a score of 14 points or more in the Roland Morris Questionnaire. RESULTS: Visits to doctors in the previous six weeks (odds ratio, OR = 1.82; 95% confidence interval, CI 1.22-2.71) and use of analgesics in the previous three months (OR = 1.57; 95% CI 1.07-2.31) showed statistically significant associations with disability-related low back pain. The probability of disability-related low back pain had an additive effect to the combination of use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures (OR = 2.57; 95% CI 1.52-4.36). The analyses showed that this association was significant among women, but not among men. CONCLUSIONS: Occurrence of the combined of consultations and medication use was correlated with higher chance of severe disability among these elderly people with nonspecific low back pain. This suggested that overuse and “crowding-in” effects were present in medical services for elderly people.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Handgrip and knee extension strengths have each been used to characterize disability. However, it has been reported that the association between handgrip and knee extension strengths is weak. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of knee extensor and handgrip muscle strength on Timed Up and Go (TUG) test results among elderly women with worse (≥ 10 seconds) and better (< 10 seconds) performance, after controlling for confounders. DATA AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study on a sample selected according to convenience, carried out in a federal public institution of higher education. METHODS: Assessment of handgrip was carried out using the Jamar dynamometer (Lafayette Instrument Company, Inc., Lafayette, United States). Knee extensor muscle performance was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex System 3 Pro; Biodex Medical Systems, Inc., United States), The confounding factors were education, age, comorbidities, body mass index and Geriatric Depression Scale and Human Activity Profile scores. Functional performance was assessed through the TUG test. A backward linear regression model was used. RESULTS: 127 elderly women performed the TUG test in more than 10 seconds and 93 in less than 10 seconds. However, regardless of test performance, handgrip strength and knee extension strength comprised the reduced final model. CONCLUSIONS: Knee extension strength and handgrip strength might be particularly useful indicators for measuring disability.

Resumo: O estudo teve como objetivo investigar a evolução da intensidade da dor lombar (DL) ao longo de 12 meses em idosos com e sem cinesiofobia. Este foi um estudo multicêntrico internacional. A intensidade da DL foi avaliada com a Numerical Pain Scale na linha de base e ao longo de 5 períodos de seguimento. As crenças e os medos dos pacientes foram medidos com o Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. O estudo incluiu 532 idosos (sem cinesiofobia = 227; com cinesiofobia = 305). Os idosos apresentavam dor moderada na linha de base, com uma diferença significativa entre os grupos. Os participantes mostraram melhora rápida nas primeiras seis semanas, seguida por melhoras menores nos meses seguintes. Entretanto, persistiu uma diferença significativa entre os grupos durante o período de seguimento. A cinesiofobia é um fator prognóstico importante e independente. Os achados sugerem a importância da triagem de fatores psicossociais no manejo de pacientes idosos com DL. Implicações práticas: os pacientes devem ser advertidos que a dor pode ser perpetuada por comportamentos inadequados de evitação, podendo à incapacidade no longo prazo.

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the course of low back pain (LBP) intensity over a period of 12 months in older people with and without kinesiophobia.This was an international multicenter study. LBP intensity was examined by using the Numerical Pain Scale at baseline and over five follow-up periods. The Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire was used to measure patients’ beliefs and fears. The study included 532 older adults (non kinesiophobic = 227; kinesiophobic = 305). The individuals had moderate pain at baseline, with a significant difference observed between the groups. Participants showed a rapid improvement in the first 6 weeks, followed by minor improvements in the succeeding months. However, a significant difference between groups remained during the follow-up period. Independently, kinesiophobia is a significant prognostic factor. These findings suggest the importance of screening for psychosocial factors in the management of older patients with LBP. Practice implications: patients need to be warned that pain can be perpetuated by inappropriate avoidance behaviors that may later lead to disability.

Resumen: El objetivo fue investigar el curso de la intensidad del dolor lumbar (LBP), durante un período de 12 meses, en personas ancianas con y sin quinesofobia. Se trata de un estudio multicéntrico internacional. La intensidad del LBP se evaluó usando la Escala Numérica de Dolor en una base de referencia y sobre 5 períodos de seguimiento. Con el fin de medir las creencias y temores de los pacientes, usamos el Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. El estudio incluyó a 532 ancianos (no quinesofóbicos = 227; quinesofóbicos = 305). Los ancianos sufrieron un dolor moderado en la base de referencia, con una significativa diferencia observada entre grupos. Los participantes mostraron una rápida mejora durante las 6 primeras semanas, seguidas por mejoras menores en los meses siguientes. No obstante, se mantuvo una diferencia significativa entre grupos durante el período de seguimiento. Independientemente, la quinesofobia es un factor pronóstico importante. Estos resultados sugieren la importancia de monitorear factores psicosociales en la gestión de pacientes ancianos con LBP. Implicaciones clínicas: los pacientes necesitan ser avisados de que el dolor puede perpetuarse por comportamientos inapropiados de prevención que quizás más tarde conduzcan a la discapacidad.

Resumo: O estudo teve como objetivo investigar a evolução da intensidade da dor lombar (DL) ao longo de 12 meses em idosos com e sem cinesiofobia. Este foi um estudo multicêntrico internacional. A intensidade da DL foi avaliada com a Numerical Pain Scale na linha de base e ao longo de 5 períodos de seguimento. As crenças e os medos dos pacientes foram medidos com o Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. O estudo incluiu 532 idosos (sem cinesiofobia = 227; com cinesiofobia = 305). Os idosos apresentavam dor moderada na linha de base, com uma diferença significativa entre os grupos. Os participantes mostraram melhora rápida nas primeiras seis semanas, seguida por melhoras menores nos meses seguintes. Entretanto, persistiu uma diferença significativa entre os grupos durante o período de seguimento. A cinesiofobia é um fator prognóstico importante e independente. Os achados sugerem a importância da triagem de fatores psicossociais no manejo de pacientes idosos com DL. Implicações práticas: os pacientes devem ser advertidos que a dor pode ser perpetuada por comportamentos inadequados de evitação, podendo à incapacidade no longo prazo.

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the course of low back pain (LBP) intensity over a period of 12 months in older people with and without kinesiophobia.This was an international multicenter study. LBP intensity was examined by using the Numerical Pain Scale at baseline and over five follow-up periods. The Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire was used to measure patients’ beliefs and fears. The study included 532 older adults (non kinesiophobic = 227; kinesiophobic = 305). The individuals had moderate pain at baseline, with a significant difference observed between the groups. Participants showed a rapid improvement in the first 6 weeks, followed by minor improvements in the succeeding months. However, a significant difference between groups remained during the follow-up period. Independently, kinesiophobia is a significant prognostic factor. These findings suggest the importance of screening for psychosocial factors in the management of older patients with LBP. Practice implications: patients need to be warned that pain can be perpetuated by inappropriate avoidance behaviors that may later lead to disability.

Resumen: El objetivo fue investigar el curso de la intensidad del dolor lumbar (LBP), durante un período de 12 meses, en personas ancianas con y sin quinesofobia. Se trata de un estudio multicéntrico internacional. La intensidad del LBP se evaluó usando la Escala Numérica de Dolor en una base de referencia y sobre 5 períodos de seguimiento. Con el fin de medir las creencias y temores de los pacientes, usamos el Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. El estudio incluyó a 532 ancianos (no quinesofóbicos = 227; quinesofóbicos = 305). Los ancianos sufrieron un dolor moderado en la base de referencia, con una significativa diferencia observada entre grupos. Los participantes mostraron una rápida mejora durante las 6 primeras semanas, seguidas por mejoras menores en los meses siguientes. No obstante, se mantuvo una diferencia significativa entre grupos durante el período de seguimiento. Independientemente, la quinesofobia es un factor pronóstico importante. Estos resultados sugieren la importancia de monitorear factores psicosociales en la gestión de pacientes ancianos con LBP. Implicaciones clínicas: los pacientes necesitan ser avisados de que el dolor puede perpetuarse por comportamientos inapropiados de prevención que quizás más tarde conduzcan a la discapacidad.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) has emerging as an epidemic, multifactorial and multidimensional condition in older age. Assessment of attitudes and beliefs of patients with back pain is necessary for understanding the impact of psychosocial factors on pain perception and management. OBJECTIVES: To cross-culturally adapt and examine the validity and reproducibility (intra and interrater reliability and agreement) of the Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ) in older Brazilians with acute LBP. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional methodological report conducted at the Department of Physical Therapy of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil. METHODS: The present study was conducted for translating, adapting, and examining the psychometric properties of a questionnaire. Participants aged ≥ 60 years experiencing an acute episode of LBP were recruited. Coefficients of internal consistency, reliability and agreement were obtained using Cronbach’s α, intraclass correlations, and standard error of measurement and the smallest detectable change, respectively. RESULTS: Twenty-six participants aged between 60-84 years and reporting a mean of 9.8 (4.3) years of schooling completed the study. The Brazilian Portuguese-language version of the BBQ (BBQ-Brazil) was proposed and presented with adequate conceptual, semantic, operational, and measurement equivalence from the original version. Intra and interrater evaluations showed moderate (0.74) and excellent (0.91) intraclass correlation coefficients, respectively, with small standard error of measurement for both evaluations. Internal consistency was considered adequate (0.70). CONCLUSION: BBQ-Brazil had consistent measurements of validity and reproducibility, and proved to be a valuable tool in clinical practice for addressing attitudes and beliefs of older patients with acute LBP.

Resumo Introdução: Quedas são multifatoriais e estão relacionadas com o processo de envelhecimento, redução da capacidade funcional, presença de comorbidades, déficits sensoriais, fraqueza muscular, instabilidade postural e redução da resposta protetora. Objetivo: Verificar a correlação entre risco fisiológico de quedas e capacidade física e aeróbica em idosos comunitários. Método: Participaram idosos da comunidade, com 65 anos e mais, sem distinção de sexo, raça e/ou classe social. Excluiu-se aqueles com déficit cognitivo, incapacidade de locomoção, doenças e sequelas neurológicas e, dor que incapacitasse a realização dos testes. Avaliou-se risco de quedas (Physiological Profile Assessment - PPA), capacidade física (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB) e capacidade aeróbica (Incremental Shuttle Walk Test - ISWT). Resultados: Participaram 59 idosos (71,8±5,0 anos). A performance média no PPA foi 0,4±0,4; no SPPB foi 10,4±1,7 e no ISWT foi 281±111,7 metros. PPA apresentou uma negativa, moderada e estatisticamente significante correlação (p<0.001) com o SPPB (r= -0,53) e ISWT (r= -0,46). Conclusão: Medidas preventivas para reduzir o risco de quedas devem incluir estratégias para aumentar capacidade funcional e aeróbica. Sugere-se ainda, o uso do SPPB na prática clínica, como medida de rastreio.

Abstract Introduction: Falls are multifactorial and are related to the aging process, reduced functional capacity, comorbidities, sensory deficits, muscle weakness, postural instability and decreased protective response. Objective: To verify the correlation between physiological risk of falls and physical and aerobic capacity of the community-dwelling elderly. Method: Participated elderly individuals from the community, aged ≥65 years, without distinction of sex, race, and/or social class. We excluded cognitive impairments, locomotion incapacity, neurological diseases or sequelae, and/or severe pain that prevented the performance of the tests. We evaluated risk of falls (Physiological Profile Assessment - PPA), physical capacity (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB) and aerobic capacity (Shuttle Walk Test - ISWT). Results: Participated 59 elderly (71.8±5.0 ys). The mean performance in PPA was 0.4±0.4; SPPB was 10.4±1.7 and ISWT was 281±111.7 meters. PPA presented a moderate and statistically significant correlation (P<0.001) for SPPB (r= -0.53) and ISWT (r= -0.46). Conclusion: There is a moderate correlation between the physiological risk of falls (PPA) and functional (SPPB) and aerobic capacity (ISWT). Preventive measures to reduce the risk of falls should include strategies to increase functional and aerobic capacity. It is suggested the systematic use of SPPB in clinical practice.

Resumo Este estudo transversal avaliou a associação de fatores biopsicossociais com a incapacidade em idosos com um novo episódio de dor lombar aguda. Foram incluídos idosos com um novo episódio de dor lombar aguda e excluídos aqueles com alterações cognitivas e deficiências motoras graves. A incapacidade foi avaliada pelo Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. Os fatores biopsicossociais (variáveis clínicas, funcionais, estado de saúde, psicológicas e sociais) foram avaliados por um questionário estruturado multidimensional e exame físico. Regressão linear multivariada foi utilizada para análise dos dados com significância estatística de 0,05. Participaram 386 idosos com média de idade de 71,6 (±4,2) anos e incapacidade de 13,7 (±5,7) pontos. A análise de regressão linear multivariada identificou que pior saúde física e mental (avaliados através do SF-36), baixa autoeficácia em quedas, dificuldade para dormir por causa da dor, piores níveis de cinesiofobia, maiores índices de massa corporal, presença de rigidez matinal na coluna lombar, maior intensidade de dor, sexo feminino e pior mobilidade funcional foram significativamente associados com incapacidade (p < 0,05). Incapacidade relacionada à dor lombar está significativamente associada com piores condições biopsicossociais de saúde em idosos.

Abstract This cross-sectional study evaluated the association of biopsychosocial factors with disability in older adults with a new episode of acute low back pain. Older patients with a new episode of acute low back pain were included and those with cognitive alterations and severe motor impairment were excluded. Disability was assessed using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. The biopsychosocial factors (clinical, functional, health status, psychological and social variables) were evaluated by a structured multidimensional questionnaire and physical examination. A multivariate linear regression was used to analyze data with a statistical significance of 0.05. A total of 386 older individuals with a mean age of 71.6 (± 4.2) years and disability of 13.7 (± 5.7) points were enrolled. Our regression analyses identified that worse physical and mental health (assessed through SF-36), low falls self-efficacy, trouble sleeping due to pain, worse kinesiophobia levels, higher body mass indexes, lumbar morning stiffness, increased pain intensity, female gender and worse functional mobility were significantly associated with baseline disability (p < 0.05). Low back pain-related disability is significantly associated with worse biopsychosocial health conditions in older adults.

Resumo Este estudo transversal avaliou a associação de fatores biopsicossociais com a incapacidade em idosos com um novo episódio de dor lombar aguda. Foram incluídos idosos com um novo episódio de dor lombar aguda e excluídos aqueles com alterações cognitivas e deficiências motoras graves. A incapacidade foi avaliada pelo Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. Os fatores biopsicossociais (variáveis clínicas, funcionais, estado de saúde, psicológicas e sociais) foram avaliados por um questionário estruturado multidimensional e exame físico. Regressão linear multivariada foi utilizada para análise dos dados com significância estatística de 0,05. Participaram 386 idosos com média de idade de 71,6 (±4,2) anos e incapacidade de 13,7 (±5,7) pontos. A análise de regressão linear multivariada identificou que pior saúde física e mental (avaliados através do SF-36), baixa autoeficácia em quedas, dificuldade para dormir por causa da dor, piores níveis de cinesiofobia, maiores índices de massa corporal, presença de rigidez matinal na coluna lombar, maior intensidade de dor, sexo feminino e pior mobilidade funcional foram significativamente associados com incapacidade (p < 0,05). Incapacidade relacionada à dor lombar está significativamente associada com piores condições biopsicossociais de saúde em idosos.

Abstract This cross-sectional study evaluated the association of biopsychosocial factors with disability in older adults with a new episode of acute low back pain. Older patients with a new episode of acute low back pain were included and those with cognitive alterations and severe motor impairment were excluded. Disability was assessed using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. The biopsychosocial factors (clinical, functional, health status, psychological and social variables) were evaluated by a structured multidimensional questionnaire and physical examination. A multivariate linear regression was used to analyze data with a statistical significance of 0.05. A total of 386 older individuals with a mean age of 71.6 (± 4.2) years and disability of 13.7 (± 5.7) points were enrolled. Our regression analyses identified that worse physical and mental health (assessed through SF-36), low falls self-efficacy, trouble sleeping due to pain, worse kinesiophobia levels, higher body mass indexes, lumbar morning stiffness, increased pain intensity, female gender and worse functional mobility were significantly associated with baseline disability (p < 0.05). Low back pain-related disability is significantly associated with worse biopsychosocial health conditions in older adults.

Abstract Background: The World Health Organization reports that one of the main incapacitating conditions in older adults is osteomusculoskeletal disorders, and among these is low back pain. There are few instruments translated and transculturally adapted with psychometric properties evaluated for older adults with this health condition in Brazil. The Pain Response to Activity and Positioning (PRAP) questionnaire enables classification of older adults through functional performance. The objective of this study was to perform a cross-cultural adaptation and verify the reliability of the PRAP for older Brazilian people with chronic low back pain. Methods: A cross-sectional methodological study from the international study “Back Complaints in the Elders”. We included individuals aged ≥60 years, with chronic lumbar pain complaints lasting ≥3 months. The transcultural translation and adaptation process followed the criteria proposed by Beaton and Guilhemeim, 1993. Reliability was tested using an unweighted Cohen's Kappa. Results: Thirty-six (36) older adults participated in the study (71.15 ± 7.23 years, 94.4% female). The intra-rater reliability for Low Back Pain (LBP) was between 0.50-1.00 and 0.23-0.84 for lower limbs, while the inter-rater reliability for LBP was between 0.25-0.63 and between 0.18-0.53 for lower limbs. The criteria for low back pain diagnosis showed intra and inter-rater agreement of 0.52 and 0.47, respectively. Conclusion: The Brazilian version of the instrument showed adequate reliability and ability to classify older adults in the diagnosis of LBP by reporting the performance of daily activities, and is indicated for use in the context of research and clinical practice. Trial registration: There is no trial registration. This is a methodological study.

RESUMO Verificou-se o risco de sarcopenia em idosas comunitárias com queixa de dor lombar aguda e comparou-se o índice de dor e mobilidade/equilíbrio entre aquelas em risco de sarcopenia e as não sarcopênicas. Pesquisa transversal, subprojeto do estudo epidemiológico e multicêntrico Back Complaints in the Elders (Bace). Participaram idosas com ao menos um episódio de dor lombar aguda no prazo de seis semanas antes da coleta de dados. Avaliou-se a velocidade de marcha (4,6m), a força de preensão palmar (dinamômetro Jamar), o índice de dor (escala analógica de dor) e mobilidade/equilíbrio (Timed Up and Go test). O risco de sarcopenia foi estimado por medida percentual e as comparações pelo teste t para amostras independentes; o nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Participaram deste estudo 322 idosas: o risco de sarcopenia foi de 54%, ou seja, 173 idosas (71,8±5,2 anos) estavam em risco de sarcopenia e 149 (46%) eram não sarcopênicas (71,5±5,1 anos). Houve diferença quanto à intensidade da dor (p=0,02) e à mobilidade/ao equilíbrio (p=0,01), sendo que aquelas em risco de sarcopenia estavam em piores condições. Os resultados demonstraram risco de sarcopenia entre as idosas com dor lombar aguda. Estas apresentavam maior índice de dor e pior mobilidade/equilíbrio, sugerindo que a sarcopenia, se presente em idosas com essa dor, pode influenciar negativamente na funcionalidade.

ABSTRACT The risk of sarcopenia was verified in community-dwelling older women with complaints of acute low back pain. The pain index and mobility/balance were compared between patients at risk of sarcopenia and the non-sarcopenic ones. This is a cross-sectional research, subproject of the epidemiological and multicenter study Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE). patients were older women with at least one episode of acute low back pain within six weeks prior to data collection. We evaluated the walking speed (4.6 m), grip strength (Jamar dynamometer), pain index (analog pain scale) and mobility/balance (Timed Up and Go test). Risk of sarcopenia was estimated by percentage measure and comparisons by the Independent Samples t Test. A significance level of 5% was adopted. A total of 322 older women participated in this study. The risk of sarcopenia was 54%, i.e., 173 patients (71.8±5.2 years) were at risk of sarcopenia and 149 (46%) were non-sarcopenic (71.5±5.1 years). There was difference for the pain intensity (p=0.02) and the mobility/balance (p=0.01), given that the ones at risk of sarcopenia were in worse conditions. The results showed risk of sarcopenia among older women with acute low back pain. The latter showed higher pain index and worse mobility/balance, suggesting that sarcopenia, if present in older women with this pain, can influence negatively the functionality.

RESUMEN Se verificó el riesgo de sarcopenia en ancianas comunitarias con queja de dolor lumbar agudo y se comparó el índice de dolor y movilidad/equilibrio entre aquellas en riesgo de sarcopenia y las no sarcopénicas. Investigación transversal, subproyecto del estudio epidemiológico y multicéntrico Back Complaints in the Elders (Bace). Participaron ancianas con al menos un episodio de dolor lumbar agudo hasta seis semanas antes de la recolección de datos. Se evaluó la velocidad de marcha (4,6m), la fuerza de asimiento palmar (dinamómetro Jamar), el índice de dolor (escala analógica de dolor) y movilidad/equilibrio (Timed Up and Go test). El riesgo de sarcopenia fue estimado por medida porcentual y las comparaciones por la prueba t para muestras independientes; el nivel de significancia adoptado fue del 5%. El estudio incluyó a 322 ancianas: el riesgo de sarcopenia fue del 54%, o sea, 173 ancianas (71,8 ± 5,2 años) estaban en riesgo de sarcopenia, y 149 (46%) fueron sarcopénicas (71,5 ± 5,1 años). Se observó una diferencia en cuanto a la intensidad del dolor (p=0,02) y a la movilidad/al equilibrio (p=0,01), siendo que aquellas en riesgo de sarcopenia estaban en peores condiciones. Los resultados demostraron el riesgo de sarcopenia entre ancianas con dolor lumbar agudo. Estas presentaban mayor índice de dolor y peor movilidad/equilibrio, sugiriendo que la sarcopenia, si está presente en ancianas con ese dolor, puede influenciar negativamente en la funcionalidad.

RESUMO Estabeleceram-se pontos de corte alternativos para o cálculo da massa muscular apendicular (MMA) em idosos brasileiros para classificar a sarcopenia. Foram analisados dados de 562 idosos participantes do estudo Fibra (Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros), no polo Belo Horizonte. Por meio da equação de Lee, determinaram-se pontos de corte para MMA baseado na percentil 20 de sua distribuição na população estudada. Em seguida, os sujeitos foram classificados para sarcopenia de acordo com os critérios do Consenso Europeu sobre Definição e Diagnóstico da Sarcopenia em Idosos, além de avaliadas as possíveis associações desta com a capacidade funcional e comorbidades. A maioria da amostra foi composta por mulheres (65,5%) com idade média de 74,1 (±6,4) e média de 1,5 (±1,4) comorbidades. Os pontos de corte para MMA foram <6.47kg/m2 para mulheres e <8.76kg/m2 para homens. A prevalência de sarcopenia foi de 14,9%, sendo 13,5% da população parcialmente dependente para atividades básicas de vida diária (ABVD), 30,6% para atividades instrumentais de vida diária (AIVD) e 66,7% para atividades avançadas de aida diária (AAVD). A sarcopenia se correlacionou apenas com AIVD (r=0,081, p= 0.05), e encontrou-se uma correlação negativa entre sarcopenia e comorbidades (r= −0,103, p=0,014). Foram propostos pontos de corte específicos para MMA para a população de idosos brasileiros e não foram encontradas correlações entre as variáveis do estudo, exceto para AIVD e comorbidades.

ABSTRACT Alternative cut-off points for the calculation of appendicular muscle mass (AMM) in older Brazilians were established to classify sarcopenia. Data from 562 older adults from Belo Horizonte who participated in the Fibra study (Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros [Fragility in Older Brazilians) were analyzed. Through Lee’s equation, cut-off points for AMM were determined based on the 20th percentile of their distribution in the studied population. Then, the subjects were classified for sarcopenia according to the criteria of the European Consensus on Definition and Diagnosis of Sarcopenia in Older Adults, and its possible associations with functional capacity and comorbidities were evaluated. Most of the sample was composed by women (65.5%) with 74.1 years of age (±6.4) and 1.5 (±1.4) comorbidities on average. The cut-off points for AMM were <6.47kg/m2 for women and <8.76kg/m2 for men. The prevalence of sarcopenia was 14.9%, 13.5% of the population being partially dependent for basic activities of daily living (BADL), 30.6% for instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and 66.7% for advanced activities of daily living (AADL). Sarcopenia was correlated with IADL only (r=0.081, p=0.05), and a negative correlation was found between sarcopenia and comorbidities (r=−0.103, p=0.014). Cut-off points specific to AAM for the population of older Brazilians were proposed, and no correlations between the variables of the study were found, except for IADL and comorbidities.

RESUMEN Se establecieron puntos de corte alternativos para el cálculo de la masa muscular apendicular (MMA) en ancianos brasileños para clasificar la sarcopenia. Fueron analizados datos de 562 ancianos participantes del estudio Fibra (Debilidad en Ancianos Brasileños), en el polo Belo Horizonte. Por medio de la ecuación de Lee, se determinaron puntos de corte para MMA basado en la percentil 20 de su distribución en la población estudiada. Luego, los sujetos fueron clasificados para sarcopenia de acuerdo con los criterios del Consenso Europeo sobre Definición y Diagnóstico de la Sarcopenia en Ancianos, además de evaluadas las posibles asociaciones de esta con la capacidad funcional y comorbidades. La gran parte de la muestra fue compuesta por mujeres (el 65,5%) con edad media de 74,1 (±6,4) y promedio de 1,5 (±1,4) comorbidades. Los puntos de corte para MMA fueron <6.47kg/m2 para mujeres y <8.76kg/m2 para hombres. La prevalencia de sarcopenia fue del 14,9%, siendo el 13,5% de la población parcialmente dependiente para actividades básicas de vida diaria (ABVD), el 30,6% para actividades instrumentales de vida diaria (AIVD) y el 66,7% para actividades avanzadas de vida diaria (AAVD). La sarcopenia se correlacionó solamente con AIVD (r=0,081, p= 0.05), y se encontró una correlación negativa entre sarcopenia y comorbidades (r= −0,103, p=0,014). Fueron propuestos los puntos de corte específicos para MMA para la población de ancianos brasileños y no fueron encontradas correlaciones entre las variables del estudio, excepto para AIVD y comorbidades.