Skin biomechanical properties and leg volume in aging healthy adults

Background In adults ageing is accompanied by changes in limb volume and skin biomechanical properties. Objectives To explore the relationship between body size, aging, skin biomechanics, and leg volume, V-Leg and to define predictive equations linking leg volume with these properties. Methods Sixty-two healthy adults (Age 18-80 years, M:F 45:55) were recruited. Anthropomorphic measures were recorded along with V-Leg (via circumferential method) and skin tone, stiffness, and elastance (via tonometry). Regression analysis was performed to define relationship between the measured parameters. Results In healthy adults bilateral V-Leg were the same regardless of leg or sex, 5791 +/- 1363 for females and 6151 +/- 1203 mls for males. V-Leg was positively correlated to body weight, where V-Leg (mls) = 1058 + 69 x Wt (kg) for females and V-Leg (mls) = 539 + 65 x Wt (Kg) of body weight for males. Skin surface biomechanical properties varied with sex, leg volume, and location on the leg with the malleolus exhibiting the stiffest surface. Conclusion The study shows that anthropometric measures change with sex and leg size are multifactorial and body weight, sex, and skin condition as important determinant factors of leg volume.