Subjective slow walking speed is associated with locomotive syndrome severity in 34,935 adults undergoing medical checkups

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between locomotive syndrome (LS) and subjective walking speed in adults who underwent health checkups. We conducted a cross-sectional study of adults who underwent medical checkups at Omiya City Clinic in 2023. A total of 34,935 participants (females, 13,991 [40.0%]; mean age, 50.1 ± 9.7 years) were analyzed. All participants answered the questionnaires regarding subjective walking speed (slow or fast) and the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale and underwent the two-step and stand-up tests. LS severity (non-LS, LS-1, LS-2, or LS-3) in the total assessment was determined from the LS risk tests, with the severity assigned if any criterion was met. To investigate the relationship between LS and subjective walking speed, multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), controlling for lifestyle factors and comorbidities. Subjective slow walking was associated with LS-1 or more (OR = 1.51; 95% CI 1.43–1.60) and LS-2 or more (OR = 2.49; 95% CI 2.12–2.91). Adults with subjective slow walking speed should undertake LS risk tests to accurately identify and assess the decline in mobility.