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Balance training reduces fear of falling and improves dynamic balance and isometric strength in institutionalised older people: a randomised trial.

Abstract

QUESTION
What is the effect of a balance training protocol with the Biodex Balance System in institutionalised older people with fear of falling?
DESIGN
Randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation and assessor blinding.
PARTICIPANTS
Forty older people who lived in a nursing home and had fear of falling.
INTERVENTION
The experimental group completed a 12-week balance training protocol based on balancing/rebalancing training with the Biodex Balance System, with two sessions per week. During the training period, participants in both groups received the same multidisciplinary care (such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing) that they usually received in the nursing home.
OUTCOME MEASURES
The primary outcome was fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale International questionnaire). Secondary outcomes were dynamic balance (Fall Risk Test) and isometric strength (torque of knee flexor and extensor isometric strength measured with an isokinetic dynamometer). Outcome measures were taken before and after the training program protocol.
RESULTS
Compared to the control group, the exercise group had significantly greater improvements at 12 weeks in fear of falling (by 8 points, 95% CI 4 to 12), in dynamic balance (by 2 degrees, 95% CI 1 to 3), and in isometric strength of the knee flexors (by 7Nm, 95% CI 3 to 11) and knee extensors (by 7Nm, 95% CI 1 to 13).
CONCLUSION
The training program was feasible and effective in reducing fear of falling and improving dynamic balance and isometric strength in institutionalised older people with fear of falling.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
ISRCTN21695765.

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    • Authors

    Gusi N, Carmelo Adsuar J, Corzo H, Del Pozo-Cruz B, Olivares PR, Parraca JA

    Institution

    Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, Spain. ngusi@unex.es

    Source

    Journal of physiotherapy 58:2 2012 pg 97-104

    MeSH

    Accidental Falls
    Aged
    Disability Evaluation
    Exercise
    Fear
    Female
    Geriatric Assessment
    Humans
    Isometric Contraction
    Male
    Muscle Strength
    Muscle Stretching Exercises
    Nursing Homes
    Outcome Assessment (Health Care)
    Postural Balance
    Proprioception
    Range of Motion, Articular

    Pub Type(s)

    Journal Article
    Randomized Controlled Trial
    Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

    Language

    eng

    PubMed ID

    22613239