The Effect of Eight Weeks of Water Training on Postural Control and Balance Recovery Strategies in 60-70 Years Old Elderly Men

Abstract

Background and Aims The risk of falling in people increases with aging. Aquatic exercises create a secure environment for people, and they can reduce the risk of falling among elderly people. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of aquatic exercises on postural control and balance recovery strategies. Methods Thirty elderly people from Kerman province were selected to participate in the research, and they were randomly divided into control (Mean±SD age 63.67±2.58 years, height 169.27±4.74 cm, and weight 71.00±6.95 kg) and intervention groups (Mean±SD age 65.00±3.07 years, height 169.50±27.34 cm, and weight 71.200±4.31 kg). The postural control and balance recovery strategies during sudden movement by treadmill were evaluated using the Biodex and motion analysis system. The intervention group participated in aquatic exercises for 8 weeks (3 times with 45 minutes per week) to challenge the physical and proprioceptive acuity, while the control group lived without any interventions. Data were analyzed using the ANCOVA and Pearson correlation tests (P<0.05). Results The results showed a significant improvement in the scores of postural control and balance recovery strategies (P<0.05). Balance strategies in elderly people moved from the hip toward the ankle (P<0.05). The onset time of muscle activity and the electrical activation of muscles in elders showed significant improvement after participating in this study (P<0.05). Conclusion The results approved that water training has significantly affected the ability to control posture and balance recovery strategies in the elderly and that changing the pattern of muscle activation has increased postural stability and improved balance. It recommends using these exercises in training programs for the elderly to decrease the risk of falls and improve balance.