The influence of height, age, center of foot pressure, trunk flexion angle, and gait speed on the functional reach test

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of height, age, right and left center of foot pressures (COP), trunk flexion angle, and gait speed on the Functional Reach Test (FRT). Data analysis included the stepwise method and Pearson correlations (p<0.05). Height and trunk flexion angle showed significant values. Moreover, the correlation coefficient between right and left COP indicated a strong correlation. Therefore, it is suggested that it is necessary to normalize the FRT by height when it is used as an evaluation of body balance. In addition, we found that the ability to bend the body forward is important as a hip strategy in reaching forward. There was no effect of right and left COP on FRT.