Quadriceps strength is a risk factor for falls and fractures. The quadriceps are the muscles in the front of your thigh. They are important for your core strength, getting up and down, and walking. With aging, loss of muscle mass called sarcopenia predisposes you to weaker quadriceps muscle strength and falls.
A measure of quadriceps strength you can test yourself. Stand up from a chair without using your arms, walk away from the chair about 10 feet, turn and return to the chair, sit down without using your arms. You may see this test referred to as the “Stand Up and Go” test. It can be timed to test quadriceps strength and mobility.
Supplemental vitamin D may help improve quadriceps muscle strength and lessen your risk of falls and fractures.