SITTING TRUNK EXERCISES FOR OLDER ADULTS TO IMPROVE BALANCE AND MOBILITY: A PILOT STUDY

Abstract

Background: Trunk extension endurance and strength are important factors related to mobility and balance in older adults. However, few studies have evaluated the effect of trunk exercises in the sitting position. Objective: This study aims to assess the effect of sitting trunk exercises on trunk extension endurance and strength, standing balance, and mobility. Methods: This was a single-center, uncontrolled study conducted at a community-center. Sixteen community-dwelling older adults participated in the study (mean age, 73 years). Participants received sitting trunk exercises program of 60 minutes once a week and daily home program, for 2 months. Trunk extension endurance and strength, trunk flexion endurance and strength were measured as trunk muscle attributes. Balance and mobility were evaluated by the functional reach test, four square step test, and maximum effort 5-m walk test. Lower limb muscle strength and five-repetition sit-to-stand test were performed to clarify the findings of primary outcome measures. Results: There were significant improvements in trunk extension endurance (difference, 138.5 sec, P <.001), trunk extension strength (9.3 kg, P <.001), trunk flexion endurance (49.6 sec, P =.003), functional reach test (2.4 cm, P =.045), four square step test (0.5 sec, P =.001), and 5-m walk test (0.3 sec, P <.001). There was no effect on knee extension strength (difference, 1.1 kg, P=.60) and trunk flexion strength (-1.2 kg, P =.42). Among community-dwelling older adults, trunk exercises in the sitting position might be effective in improving trunk muscle, balance, and mobility.