Introduction

Introduction

As the global population ages, the prevalence of sarcopenia—characterized by the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength—has become a significant public health concern. Sarcopenia not only affects physical performance but also increases the risk of falls, disability, and mortality among older adults (Bai et al., 2023). In recent years, wearable technology has emerged as a promising tool to enhance physical activity levels, particularly walking, which is a low-impact exercise that can improve muscle health. This article explores the impact of wearable walking programs on muscle health in older adults, focusing on the relationship between physical activity, sarcopenia, trunk control, and pain management strategies.

Impact of Wearable Technology on Physical Activity Levels

Wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness trackers are designed to monitor physical activity levels and provide real-time feedback. Studies indicate that these devices can significantly increase daily step counts, leading to improvements in muscle mass and overall physical health among older adults (Wu & Manga, 2025). A systematic review demonstrated that older adults utilizing wearable technology could increase their physical activity levels by 15-25%, which is crucial for combating sarcopenia (Vijayan et al., 2021).

The integration of technology into exercise routines allows for personalized walking programs tailored to individual capabilities and needs. For example, in a recent study, participants using wearable devices in a structured walking program exhibited a 5.5% increase in skeletal muscle mass and a 10.5% improvement in lower limb function over a 12-week intervention (Bai et al., 2023).

Benefits of Structured Walking Programs for Muscle Composition

Structured walking programs, particularly those augmented by wearable technology, have demonstrated significant benefits for muscle composition in older adults. These programs not only encourage increased physical activity but also help in maintaining and enhancing muscle strength. A recent randomized controlled trial revealed that participants in a structured walking program experienced substantial improvements in their body composition, with increases in skeletal muscle mass and handgrip strength, alongside improvements in functional performance metrics such as the sit-to-stand test (Wu & Manga, 2025).

Table 1 summarizes the findings of a study comparing the effects of structured walking interventions on muscle health:

This table not only illustrates the effectiveness of structured walking but also emphasizes the potential of such interventions in improving muscle health and counteracting the effects of sarcopenia.

Relationship Between Sarcopenia and Muscle Strength in Seniors

Sarcopenia has been identified as a major contributor to physical disability in older adults. The decline in muscle strength is closely linked to a decrease in muscle mass, which significantly affects functional abilities (Bai et al., 2023). The appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI) is a key metric used to assess sarcopenia, providing insights into muscle mass relative to height (Bai et al., 2023). Research has shown that a decline in ASMI correlates with increased risks of falls and frailty.

In a cohort study of older adults, those who engaged in regular walking demonstrated higher ASMI levels and improved functional performance (Wu & Manga, 2025). This supports the assertion that interventions aimed at increasing muscle mass and strength through regular walking can mitigate the impacts of sarcopenia.

Role of Trunk Control in Functional Activities for Seniors

Trunk control is a critical component of effective movement and stability, particularly for older adults who are at risk of falls. Proper trunk control facilitates balance during various functional activities, such as transferring from sitting to standing or walking (Hidalgo Mas et al., 2025). Research indicates that individuals with better trunk stability can execute movements more efficiently, reducing the risk of injury.

For older adults engaged in walking programs, the improvement in trunk control can enhance their ability to perform daily activities, thus promoting independence and overall quality of life. A systematic review highlighted the importance of trunk stability in performing seated daily activities, demonstrating that those with spinal cord injuries exhibited reduced trunk displacement and impaired control, ultimately affecting their functional independence (Hidalgo Mas et al., 2025).

Improving Pain Management with Rhomboid Intercostal Plane Block

Pain management is a crucial aspect of enhancing muscle health and functional performance in older adults, particularly those undergoing rehabilitation. The rhomboid intercostal plane (RIB) block has emerged as an effective technique for providing analgesia in various procedures, including cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation (Altun et al., 2025). This technique reduces the need for additional local anesthesia and opioid consumption, thereby improving patient satisfaction and postoperative pain management.

A recent study showed that patients receiving RIB blocks experienced significantly lower pain scores during and after procedures compared to those receiving only local anesthesia (Altun et al., 2025). This highlights the potential for incorporating such pain management strategies within rehabilitation programs for older adults, thereby facilitating more effective engagement in physical activities and exercise programs.

Discussion

The evidence presented underscores the importance of integrating wearable technology within structured walking programs to enhance muscle health in older adults. By promoting increased physical activity, these interventions address the challenges posed by sarcopenia, improving muscle composition and functional performance. Additionally, the role of trunk control in maintaining independence and the implementation of effective pain management strategies such as RIB blocks further enhance the efficacy of rehabilitation efforts.

As the population ages, the adoption of such evidence-based interventions can contribute significantly to the overall physical health of older adults, allowing for healthier aging and reduced healthcare burdens.

FAQ

What is sarcopenia?
Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, leading to functional decline and increased risk of disability.

How does wearable technology help in increasing physical activity?
Wearable technology, like fitness trackers, provides real-time feedback on activity levels, encouraging users to meet their physical activity goals through personalized insights.

What are the benefits of walking programs for older adults?
Walking programs improve muscle strength, enhance body composition, and contribute to better functional performance, which is crucial for maintaining independence.

What is the rhomboid intercostal plane block?
The rhomboid intercostal plane block is a regional anesthesia technique that provides effective pain relief during and after surgical procedures involving the thoracic region.

How can trunk control affect older adults’ mobility?
Improved trunk control enhances balance and stability, allowing older adults to perform daily activities more effectively and with a lower risk of falls.

References

1. Bai, X., Soh, K. G., Omar Dev, R. D., Talib, O., Xiao, W., & Cai, H. (2023). Effect of brisk walking on Health-Related physical fitness balance and life satisfaction among the elderly: A systematic review. Front Public Health, 12, 1302783. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.829367

2. Wu, C. E., & Manga, Y. B. (2025). Impact of wearable-assisted walking on sarcopenia and body composition in older adults. BMC Geriatrics, 25, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-025-06142-x

3. Vijayan, V., Connolly, J. P., Condell, J., McKelvey, N., & Gardiner, P. (2021). Review of Wearable Devices and Data Collection Considerations for Connected Health. Sensors, 21(16), 5589

4. Altun, G., Esin, A., Ozsahin, Y., Arslan, S., Erkalp, K., & Salihoglu, Z. (2025). Outcomes of rhomboid intercostal plane block on local anaesthesia in cardiac implantable electronic device implantation: a randomized controlled clinical trial. BMC Anesthesiology, 11(1), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12871-025-03206-8

5. Hidalgo Mas, M. del R., Wu, R.-Y., Nightingale, T., Valdes, E. M., Ahmed, Z., & Chiou, S.-Y. (2025). Trunk kinematics during seated functional activities in individuals with spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-06765-5