Intramuscular adipose tissue, muscle area, and power as predictors of performance in breast cancer survivors.

Purpose: The decline in physical performance, assessed by physical tests such as the timed up and go (TUG) test, is a consequence of reduced physiological reserves at higher levels of a hierarchical process. This occurs due to changes in muscle architecture, including atrophy and fat infiltration into the muscles, which in turn lead to changes in muscle function, resulting in reduced muscle strength and power and, consequently, affecting physical performance. This study investigated predictive factors for physical performance in breast cancer survivor (BCS), focusing on intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), quadríceps muscle area (QMA), and muscular power.

Propulsive forces and muscle activation during gait: comparisons between premenopausal and postmenopausal midlife women.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a reduction in propulsive force during gait in postmenopausal women compared with premenopausal women.

Methods: Forty-four women (21 premenopausal and 23 postmenopausal women) aged 40 to 55 years were selected. The ability to reach peak propulsive forces was assessed during the step execution test.