The Timed Up and Go Test is Related to Quantitative Ultrasound Parameters of Bone Strength in Japanese Community-Dwelling Elderly Women

[Purpose] The timed up and go test (TUGT) requires no special equipment or training, and it is a simple clinical assessment tool. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between a quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameter of bone strength and TUGT in Japanese community-dwelling elderly women. [Methods] Ninety-nine community-dwelling elderly women participated (mean age, 74.4 ± 5.7 years) in the present study. The speed of sound (SOS) in the right calcaneus was measured using a QUS device to assess bone strength. Physical function examinations included grip strength, single leg stance time, TUGT, and gait speed. The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG-IC) was used to assess each subject's functioning, and each subject's age, height, and weight were also collected. [Results] In multiple linear regression analysis controlling for age, of the physical function parameters, only TUGT was significantly related to SOS in all subjects. Furthermore, the relationship between SOS and TUGT was significant for those with high TMIG-IC scores, but SOS was not associated with any physical function parameters (including TUGT) for those with low TMIG-IC scores. [Conclusion] TUGT may contribute to the development of a simple clinical assessment tool that could be used to screen for hip fracture risk.