Elastic Knee Sleeve on Dynamic Balance in Pre-Elderly Women: A Community-Based Study

Abstract

Population aging is associated with progressive declines in neuromuscular function and proprioceptive sensitivity that may impair postural stability beginning in middle adulthood. Reduced balance performance is associated with an increased risk of falls and functional limitations later in life. Elastic knee sleeves are widely used orthotic devices that may enhance proprioceptive feedback and joint awareness; however, evidence regarding their functional effects in community-dwelling pre-elderly populations remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of elastic knee sleeve use on dynamic balance among pre-elderly women participating in community exercise programs. A community-based quasi-experimental pre–post intervention study was conducted involving 30 pre-elderly women aged 45–59 years. Participants were instructed to wear elastic knee sleeves for approximately five hours daily over six weeks. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Y Balance Test before and after the intervention. Differences in balance performance were analyzed using paired t-tests with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Dynamic balance performance improved significantly after the intervention. Mean Y Balance Test scores increased from 74.93 ± 13.32 to 108.50 ± 12.74 for the left leg and from 75.20 ± 12.32 to 108.10 ± 13.72 for the right leg (p < 0.001). These findings indicate a substantial improvement in dynamic postural control following knee sleeve use. Elastic knee sleeves may represent a simple orthotic strategy to enhance proprioceptive feedback and improve dynamic balance among pre-elderly women participating in community exercise programs.