Effect of Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Functional and Cognitive Abilities in Elderly

Not Applicable

Recruiting

• Conditions: Functional Abilities; Cognitive Abilities

• Registration Number: NCT07208630
• Lead Sponsor: Cairo University

Brief Summary

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on functional and cognitive abilities in elderly.

BACKGROUND: There is an increased interest in health care with growth of the older population.

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a manual therapy technique using specially designed tools to apply pressure and mobilize soft tissues. It has gained attention as a non-invasive intervention that can aid in improving musculoskeletal health and overall function, especially in older adults. Given the aging population and the rise in age-related functional and cognitive decline, there is a pressing need for effective strategies to enhance quality of life in this demographic.

In the elderly, musculoskeletal issues, such as reduced muscle flexibility, joint stiffness, and soft tissue restrictions, are common and can severely impact physical function. IASTM has been shown to increase tissue perfusion, reduce fascial restrictions, and improve joint mobility. These effects are critical in countering age-related declines in mobility, balance, and overall physical functionality, ultimately promoting greater independence and reducing fall risk. Improved physical function through IASTM may also influence cognitive health positively, as increased physical activity and mobility are linked to better cognitive outcomes in the elderly.

HYPOTHESES: There will be no significant effect of Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on functional and cognitive abilities in elderly.

RESEARCH QUESTION: Does instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization is effective on functional and cognitive abilities in elderly?

Detailed Description

Not available

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-09
• Study Start: 2025-09-10
• Primary Completion: 2025-09-15
• Study First Submitted: 2025-09-28
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-09-28
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-09-28
• Study First Posted: 2025-10-06
• Last Update Posted: 2025-10-06
• Study Completion: 2025-10-15

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 60

Inclusion Criteria

60 elderly subjects aged range from 65-75 years old will participant in the study from both genders, had cognitive abilities to understand explanations and instructions, and did not take any medication that can affect their balance.

Exclusion Criteria

they neither had sever musculoskeletal disorders nor neurological damage related to balance (dizziness, vestibular dysfunction), nor orthostatic hypotension, nor health risk factors.

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Change in Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score	Baseline and 4 weeks (end of treatment).	Mean change in SPPB total score (0-12; higher = better physical function) from baseline to end of intervention. The SPPB includes standing balance, 4-m gait speed, and five-times-sit-to-stand.

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Change in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score	Baseline and 4 weeks (end of treatment).	Mean change in MoCA total score (0-30; higher = better cognition) from baseline to end of intervention and at follow-up.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Faculty of physical therapy; 🇪🇬 Giza, Egypt