The effects of plantar perception training on balance and falls efficacy of the elderly with a history of falls: A single-blind, randomized controlled trial

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to identify the effects of plantar perception training using a hardness discrimination task on balance and falls efficacy of the elderly who have experienced a fall. Materials and methodsSixty-two elderly persons 65 years of age or older were randomly allocated to the experimental group (n = 31) or the control group (n = 31). The experimental group performed a hardness discrimination task using five different levels of hardness of sponge mats, while the control group performed the same task except that they were not asked to discriminate hardness levels of sponge mats. All subjects performed 10 sessions for two weeks. Outcome measures were conducted using center of pressure (CoP) sway in the standing position, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and falls efficacy scale (FES) to measure balance and falls efficacy. ResultsThere were no significant differences in general characteristics between both groups (p > .05). After 10 sessions, plantar perception was significantly improved in the experimental group (F = 101.18, p < .001). Additionally, changes in CoP sway with eye closed and TUG test were significantly different (p < .05) between the experimental group (CoP sway with eye closed, −208.32 ± 74.89; TUG test, −1.91 ± 0.72) and the control group (CoP sway with eye closed, −14.55 ± 35.44; TUG test, −1.31 ± 0.75). ConclusionsThese results showed that plantar perception training might be beneficial to improve falls efficacy as well as balance of the elderly.