STRIDE: Strength of The Calf Muscles and Their Role In Declining Effectiveness of Movement With Aging
This study, called STRIDE, is looking into the strength of your calf muscles. These muscles are super important for everyday things like walking and running. As we get older, or if we have certain health conditions, these muscles can weaken, making it harder to move around and do daily tasks. We want to understand how calf muscle strength relates to how well people can walk and do other activities, especially in those who might have or be at risk of muscle weakness (sarcopenia). We'll use common equipment to measure muscle strength and movement, hoping to find easier ways to spot people who might be at higher risk of falls. This study mainly involves one visit to complete various tests.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine your calf muscles as the powerhouses for your legs – they're super important for walking, running, and just getting around every day. As we get older, or sometimes because of illness, these muscles can lose their strength and size. This can make it harder to do daily activities and can even increase the risk of falling over. When muscles get weaker and smaller, it's called sarcopenia, and it affects many people.
At the moment, checking for sarcopenia often uses special equipment that's not always available in regular clinics. Our study, called STRIDE, is trying to find out if we can use more common, everyday equipment to understand the link between calf muscle strength and how well people can move. We want to see if having stronger or weaker calf muscles makes a big difference to how easily you can walk and do other things, especially for people who have or are at risk of sarcopenia.
By taking part, you'll help us learn more about how calf muscles affect movement. This knowledge could help doctors and nurses better identify and support people who might be at risk of falls or muscle weakness in the future, using tools that are more widely available.
Key takeaways
- The study focuses on calf muscle strength and its link to everyday movement.
- It aims to improve how we identify people at risk of falls or muscle weakness (sarcopenia).
- Participation involves one clinic visit with various physical tests and questionnaires.
- No new medications or treatments are given – it's an observational study.
- You must be able to walk independently and be 18 years or older to participate.
- Your involvement helps advance understanding for future patient care.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and be able to give your clear agreement to take part. You should also be able to walk by yourself, even if you need to use a walking aid like a stick, and be able to come to the clinic for an appointment.
However, there are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For instance, if you're receiving end-of-life care, have significant difficulty communicating, or can't walk at all. Also, if you've had surgery on your lower leg or a broken leg within the last six months, or if you have serious heart or lung problems, issues with your eyesight or balance, or recently had a steroid injection in your lower leg, you wouldn't be able to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you walk on your own, even if you use a walking aid?
- Are you able and willing to openly agree to take part?
- Have you had no lower leg surgery or broken bones in your leg in the last 6 months?
- Do you not have severe communication or memory problems?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll have one clinic visit. During this visit, we'll do several assessments. These include tests to measure the strength of your calf, thigh, and hand muscles. We'll also use a special camera system to look at how you walk, and an ultrasound scan to examine your Achilles tendon and check the stiffness of your calf muscles. You'll also have a scan to understand your body make-up, complete a physical performance test, and fill out some questionnaires. This is an observational study, which means you won't be given any new medication or specific treatment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of LeicesterVerified postcodeLeicester, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is sarcopenia?
Sarcopenia is a condition where you lose muscle mass (size), strength, and function, often as you get older. It can make everyday activities harder.
Do I have to take any medicine?
No, this is an observational study, which means no new medications or treatments are involved. We are just observing and measuring.
How long will my visit to the clinic take?
The study involves one clinic visit. The various tests will all be completed during this single appointment.
Will I get paid for taking part?
The information provided does not mention payment for participation.
What happens with my information?
Your information will be used to help us understand more about calf muscle strength and physical performance. It will be kept confidential.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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