Sensorimotor and balance function in older adults with lumbar nerve root compression.

The purpose of this study was to determine how sensorimotor status and balance control would be affected by lumbar nerve root compression in older adults. The vibration sense, joint motion sense, and strength of the lower legs of healthy older adults and older patients with lumbar nerve root compression (n = 17 each group) were tested for sensorimotor function. The motion of the center of pressure during quiet standing, center of pressure during forward reach, and the score on Berg's functional balance test were examined for static, dynamic, and functional balance control abilities, respectively. It was found that the patient group had significantly weaker strength, greater center of pressure motion during quiet stance, slower center of pressure motion, shorter distance during forward reach test, and lower functional balance ability. No significant sensory deterioration was found. Older patients with lumbar nerve root compression had weaker leg muscle strength and poorer balance control than healthy older adults. A thorough examination of strength and balance should be included in the clinical treatment for patients with lumbar nerve root compression.