The effect of a gait and balance training program on an unstable mudflats surface in older adults: A randomized controlled pilot study.

Abstract

Balance training on an unstable support surface has been known to improve postural control. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a gait and balance training program on an unstable mudflats surface in older adults. A total of 28 older people were assigned to participate in a gait and balance training program on an unstable mudflats surface (experimental group) or on firm ground (control group). All participants received the training program for 55 minutes per session, 2 sessions per day for 5 days. The primary outcomes were the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and single-leg stance (SLS) test. Secondary outcomes were Timed Up and Go (TUG), 10-meter walk test (10MWT), Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES), Motricity Index (MI) of the lower extremities, and medical research council (MRC) scale of lower extremities. SLS with eyes open and the MRC of the left and right ankles showed a large effect size whereas the MI of the left and right lower extremities and MRC of the left and right knees showed a medium effect size in the experimental group. Intergroup differences in changes from baseline to after the exercise program included a large effect size of the SLS with eye open and MI of the right lower extremity and a medium effect size of the MI of the left lower extremity and MRC of the right ankle and left hip. Muscle strength and balance of older people could be improved with gait and balance training on an unstable mudflat surface.