The Efficacy of Perturbation-Based Balance Training Among Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Aims The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the efficacy of perturbation-based balance training in the older adults to reduce risk and number of falls. Methods Multiple databases were searched for articles published between 2012-2021. The inclusion criteria were 1) patients ≥65 years of age, 2) land-based perturbation training, 3) randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 4) PBT intervention group, 5) controlled intervention group, 5) written in English, and 6) articles scoring 6/10 (“good”) or higher on the PEDro scale. Results Six articles met the inclusion criteria with a PEDro scale range of 6-8/10. A total of 793 subjects were included across the studies. Conclusions PBT can be effective in improving various deficits predictive of falls. The effect was most pronounced in reactive balance control, balance confidence, and gait kinematics of recovery steps with mild effect in overall fall risk.