Ab. No. 69 Comparative Study on Effect of Square Stepping Exercises With Conventional Balance Exercises on Balance in Community Dwelling Elderly Population: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Determining & comparing the effects of Square Stepping Exercises (SSE) versus Conventional balance exercises after 4 weeks training in the older adults. To tackle age-related decline in balance performance in elderly, physical interventions are essential. SSE is a novel intervention that can enhance balance and reduce the risk of falls. Methods: 40 healthy community dwelling older individuals of age 60 years & more with ability to walk backwards for 3 meters were included in the study. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups of 20 each using sealed envelope method. Limits of Stability (LOS) and Mini-BES Test were assessed as outcome measures prior to and after the 4 weeks of training. Non-Parametric test were used to analyze the data of Mini BESTest as the data was not normally distributed. Whereas the rest of the data (LOS) were normally distributed, hence parametric tests were used to analyze. Results: Both the groups showed statistically significant results when compared to their pre-intervention scores (p<0.0001) The between group comparison did not show any statistically significant difference on balance components (p>0.05). Conclusions: Both Conventional balance training exercises and Square stepping exercises were found to be equally effective in improving balance in elderly. Implications: SSE does not have an advantage over the conventional balance exercises, however it can be used as an adjunct to the conventional balance training to introduce variety in training of community dwelling elderly with adequate safety measures in place.