Impact of salah on lower limb function in elderly population of performers and non-performers
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Date
2025
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
UMT, Lahore
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Salah (Islamic prayer) is a fundamental act of worship performed five times daily by practicing Muslims, involving a series of physical movements including standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting. These movements require coordination, muscle strength, flexibility, and joint mobility particularly in the lower limbs. Regular performance of Salah throughout life may serve as a form of low-intensity physical activity, potentially contributing to better musculoskeletal function in older age. In elderly populations, maintaining lower limb functionality is essential for balance, mobility, and independence. However, the relationship between long-term adherence to Salah and its effect on lower limb function in the elderly remains underexplored. This study aims to compare lower limb functionality between elderly individuals who perform Salah regularly and those who do not, to evaluate its potential musculoskeletal benefits. METHODS: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly individuals aged 50 years and above. Participants were divided into two groups: Salah performers (offering at least three prayers regularly for 6 months) and non-performers (those not performing Salah consistently or at all). Individuals with recent lower limb injuries , surgeries , musculoskeletal and neurological conditions were excluded . Convenience sampling was used for participant recruitment from local communities, mosques, and elder care facilities. Lower limb functionality was assessed using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), a standardized and validated self-reported questionnaire designed to evaluate the functional status of the lower limbs. Demographic and clinical data were also collected. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS to compare LEFS scores between both groups RESULTS: Out of 200 participants aged between 50 and 75, the mean age was 62.4 years (SD = 6.8). The average Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) score among participants was 54.7. xii Individuals who regularly performed Salah demonstrated significantly higher LEFS scores compared to non-performers. The findings indicate that Salah performers had better lower limb functionality, reflecting improved mobility and physical independence in daily tasks. A significant association was observed between regular Salah practice and enhanced lower limb performance, suggesting that the physical postures involved in Salah such as standing, bowing, and prostrating may contribute positively to muscular strength, joint flexibility, and balance among the elderly. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study suggest that elderly individuals who regularly perform Salah demonstrate better lower limb functionality compared to non-performers. This indicates that the physical movements involved in Salah may contribute positively to musculoskeletal health and functional independence in older age. Promoting regular prayer may serve as a culturally relevant and spiritually meaningful form of physical activity for maintaining lower limb function in the elderly population.