Post-training Measurements Research Articles

Effects of Bilateral and Unilateral Plyometric Training on Physical Performance in Male Postpubertal Basketball Players.

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of bilateral and unilateral plyometric-training (PT) programs on jumping, sprinting, and change-of-direction (COD)ability in male postpubertal basketball players. Forty-three young male basketball players (14.2 [1.2]y), from 4 squads belonging to an elite basketball club, were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: (1) bilateral PT group (BG), (2) unilateral PT group (UG), and (3) control group (CG). The experimental groups followed a PT program twice weekly for 6weeks, with BG and UG performing 2- and 1-legged jumps, respectively. Both groups completed the same number of vertical, horizontal, cyclic, and acyclic jumps. Pretraining and posttraining measurements included (1) countermovement jump (CMJ), (2) unilateral CMJ (CMJL and CMJR), (3) horizontal jump (HJ), (4) unilateral HJ (HJL and HJR), (5) straight-line sprint in 20m (T20), and (6) V-Cut COD test (V-Cut). CMJ, CMJL, and CMJR were significantly improved by BG and UG (P < .001), while CG did not change. Both theBG and theUG improved their performance significantly (P < .01) in HJL and HJR, but only BG significantly increased (P < .05) HJ and showed significantly greater improvements than CG. Furthermore, only BG improved V-Cut performance (P = .03). Neither group increased T20. CG did not improve in any tests. BG enhances single-leg and double-leg jump performance in vertical and horizontal directions, as well as COD ability. In contrast, an equivalent volume of unilateral PT only improves vertical jumps and unilateral HJs.

Quantifying lower limb skeletal muscle activity changes after 3 months of intrinsic foot muscle training: a randomized controlled trial.

Foot rock-paper-scissors and towel-gathering exercises are widely used for isometric strengthening of intrinsic foot muscles. An initial trial demonstrated that foot rock-paper-scissors and towel-gathering exercises affected skeletal muscles associated with the medial longitudinal arch and toe pressure force, respectively. However, no quantitative reports of interosseous muscle activity after continuous training exist. We aimed to quantitatively assess and compare the impact of foot rock-paper-scissors and towel-gathering exercises on skeletal muscle activity in university athletes over a 3-month period using FDG-PET 3 imaging. This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in a university hospital with pre- and post-training PET measurements of muscle activity changes. Eight healthy university athletes were subjected to two 3-month-long exercise regimens: foot rock-paper-scissors and towel-gathering. Skeletal muscle activity changes were quantitatively evaluated using FDG-PET imaging. We defined regions of interest across 25 specific muscles and conducted measurements of toe pressure strength and vertical jump height. The foot rock-paper-scissors exercise initially impacted medial muscles and later intrinsic foot muscles, including lateral longitudinal arch muscles. The towel-gathering exercise improved toe pressure force and vertical jump. Therefore, each exercise targets specific muscle groups differently. Foot rock-paper-scissors and towel-gathering exercises have distinct effects on skeletal muscle activity. The former primarily enhances medial intrinsic muscles, while the latter improves toe pressure force and vertical jump ability. This highlights the importance of selecting specific exercises for targeted muscle training in athletic and rehabilitation settings. Further research is suggested to extend these findings to broader athletic populations and clinical applications.

The Impact of Plyometric and Hurdle Jump Training on Smash Performance in the Haway Volleyball Team

This study investigates the impact of plyometric and hurdle jump training on the smash performance of the Haway Volleyball Team. The methodology involved dividing team members into experimental and control groups, with the experimental group undergoing targeted plyometric and hurdle jump exercises. Baseline and post-training measurements were taken for jump height, smash speed, and accuracy. Results indicated that the experimental group showed significant improvements: a 15% increase in jump height, a 10% increase in smash speed, and a 12% increase in accuracy, while the control group showed minimal changes. These findings highlight the effectiveness of plyometric and hurdle jump training in enhancing explosive power, agility, and coordination, which are essential for successful smashes in volleyball. The discussion emphasizes the need for integrating these training methods into regular volleyball training programs to optimize player performance. Future research should explore the long-term effects and broader applications of these training interventions in different athletic contexts.

Effects of Plyometric Training Volume on Physical Performance in Youth Basketball Players.

Aztarain-Cardiel, K, Garatachea, N, and Pareja-Blanco, F. Effects of plyometric training volume on physical performance in youth basketball players. J Strength Cond Res 38(7): 1275-1279, 2024-The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different plyometric training volumes on jumping, sprinting, and change-of-direction performances in youth basketball players. Thirty-one young male basketball players (age: 15.1 ± 1.8 years) from 4 squads belonging to an elite basketball club were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: (a) low-volume (LV) plyometric training, (b) high-volume (HV) plyometric training, and (c) control group (CG). The subjects followed a plyometric training program twice a week for 6 weeks, differing in the training volume controlled through the number of jumps per session. Both experimental groups performed 8 repetitions in each set of bilateral vertical jumps with free arms, but HV completed twice the training volume of LV (98.7 vs. 49.3 jumps per session). Pretraining and Posttraining measurements included the following: (a) squat jump (SJ); (b) countermovement jump (CMJ); (c) horizontal jump (HJ); (d) straight-line sprint in 20 m (Sprint); and (e) V-Cut change-of-direction test (V-Cut). The LV and HV groups showed similar increases in vertical jump performance. The LV group significantly increased its performance in SJ, CMJ, and HJ (p < 0.001-0.05), whereas the HV group showed significant improvements only in SJ and CMJ (p < 0.001). Furthermore, neither group increased their sprint or change of direction performance. Control group did not improve in any performance variable analyzed. Therefore, the LV and HV plyometric training programs produce similar benefits on jump performance variables, but LV is more repetition-efficient than HV in young basketball players. This supports the statement that there is a nonlinear relationship between training volume and performance improvements.

Efficacy of a Single-Bout of Auditory Feedback Training on Gait Performance and Kinematics in Healthy Young Adults.

This study investigated the immediate effects of auditory feedback training on gait performance and kinematics in 19 healthy young adults, focusing on bilateral changes, despite unilateral training. Baseline and post-training kinematic measurements, as well as the feedback training were performed on a treadmill with a constant velocity. Significant improvements were seen in step length (trained: 590.7 mm to 611.1 mm, 95%CI [7.609, 24.373]; untrained: 591.1 mm to 628.7 mm, 95%CI [10.698, 30.835]), toe clearance (trained: 13.9 mm to 16.5 mm, 95%CI [1.284, 3.503]; untrained: 11.8 mm to 13.7 mm, 95%CI [1.763, 3.612]), ankle dorsiflexion angle at terminal stance (trained: 8.3 deg to 10.5 deg, 95%CI [1.092, 3.319]; untrained: 9.2 deg to 12.0 deg, 95%CI [1.676, 3.573]), hip flexion angular velocity, (trained: -126.5 deg/s to -131.0 deg/s, 95%CI [-9.054, -2.623]; untrained: -130.2 deg/s to -135.3 deg/s, 95%CI [-10.536, -1.675]), ankle angular velocity at terminal stance (trained: -344.7 deg/s to -359.1 deg/s, 95%CI [-47.540, -14.924]; untrained: -340.3 deg/s to -376.9 deg/s, 95%CI [-37.280, -13.166s]), and gastrocnemius EMG activity (trained: 0.60 to 0.66, 95%CI [0.014, 0.258]; untrained: 0.55 to 0.65, 95%CI [0.049, 0.214]). These findings demonstrate the efficacy of auditory feedback training in enhancing key gait parameters, highlighting the bilateral benefits from unilateral training.

Effect of a Short-Term Combined Balance and Multidirectional Plyometric Training on Postural Balance and Explosive Performance in U-13 Male and Female Soccer Athletes

This study’s aim is to examine the effect of a combined balance and multidirectional plyometric training intervention on postural balance ability and lower limb explosive performance in U-13 male and female soccer athletes. Twenty pre-adolescent (age: 12.6 ± 1.6 years) soccer athletes followed a 6-week training intervention combining balance exercises, dynamic stabilization tasks and multidirectional plyometric exercises at a frequency of twice/week for 20–25 min, based on a progressive increase in exercise difficulty from phase A (week 1–3) to phase B (week 4–6). Pre- and post-training measurements were carried out to assess the following: (a) static balance performance in single (left, right)-legged and two-legged quiet stance trials with eyes open and eyes closed (two trials per stance and vision condition of 30 s duration) and (b) lower limb explosive performance in countermovement and squat jumps without arm swing (three trials/jump). The vertical GRF was recorded by a customized force plate (Wii, 1.000 Hz, Biovision) and offline, CoP and explosive performance parameters were calculated. The overall results showed that the static balance ability of athletes remained unaffected, while restricting their vision deteriorated their postural control. The lower limb explosive performance showed a trend for improvement; however, inter-individual variations in athletes’ responses might have obscured any effect.

Training future engineers: Integrating Computational Thinking and effective learning methodologies into education

AbstractThis article examines the effectiveness and interest generated among primary and secondary education students through activities aimed at developing Computational Thinking skills, in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The shift to online or hybrid learning models posed a significant challenge for educators, particularly those lacking digital skills. The study sought to answer several research questions, including the impact of online versus in‐person teaching on preuniversity students and gender differences in Computer Science perception, and Computational Thinking skills performance. The study employed a four‐phase methodology, consisting of pre‐ and posttraining measurements of Computer Science perception and Computational Thinking skills development through specific activities delivered in‐person or online. The results indicate that in‐person training is more effective for developing Computational Thinking skills, particularly at the secondary education level. Furthermore, there is a need to focus on maintaining girls' interest in Computer Science during primary school, as interest levels tend to decline significantly in secondary school. These findings have significant implications for Engineering Education in the context of digital transformation and the increasing importance of Computational Thinking skills in various fields of engineering. This study highlights the importance of developing Computational Thinking skills among preuniversity students and the need for effective training methods to achieve this goal and underscore the significance of investing in Engineering Education to prepare the next generation of engineers for the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Effect of Computerized Training Programs for Attention and Perception for Patients with Hearing Aids

Introduction: Sensorineural hearing loss is a common problem, especially among geriatric patients, and it requires hearing aids. Unfortunately, most geriatric patients are hesitant to use hearing aids. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether computerized training therapies increase the attention and perception of patients who have been given hearing aids using psychophysiological tests and wave P300 records. Methods: One hundred patients (40 women and 60 men) who used hearing aids were included in our study. Sixty patients (30 women and 30 men) received computerized training therapies with hearing aids. After the psychophysiological tests, the study group was divided into three groups according to the role given to patients. Passive training was given in group 1; interactive training was given in group 2; and group 3 was active, questioning training. Measurements of P300 wave latencies, stimuli-P300 peak, and baseline-P300 peak were performed before and after training. The control group consisted of 40 patients who did not receive training and were treated with hearing aids only. Results: We found a significant difference between the pre- and post-training measures of the P300 wave (p < 0.001). Pre-training measurements of P300 waves were recorded for 12% in group 1 and 9.1% in groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.24). Post-training measurements of the P300 wave records were 80% in group 1 and 72.7% in groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.22). Conclusion: Attention and perception can be measured with the P300 wave. All computer-supported training programs showed an increase of the P300 wave, suggesting that attention and perception of patients with hearing loss can be increased with computer-supported training programs provided with hearing aids.

Regular use of acupressure mats reduces perceived stress at subjective but not psychophysiological levels: Insights from a three-week relaxation training.

Acupressure mats are promoted as stress management tools for easy and effective self-application, promising reduced stress and increased well-being. However, the scientific evidence for these effects is based on few experimental studies and lacks the examination of acupressure mats as a solitary relaxation tool. Our study aimed to examine which changes in stress and well-being can be expected from the use of acupressure mats by healthy young people on the subjective and psychophysiological level. Unexperienced participants practiced relaxation for three weeks either with an acupressure mat or without any tools (active control group [CG]). As a results, subjective well-being and stress decreased, while sleep quality and concentration endurance increased across groups. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), pain threshold and pain tolerance did not change significantly from pre- to post-training measurements. Most importantly, no significant differences were found between groups, indicating that training with an acupressure mat yielded no superior effects compared with an active control condition in healthy young students. As a conclusion, taking time to relax has some but limited beneficial effects on the subjective levels independent of the specific method for healthy students. Potential beneficial effects of acupressure mats might be bound to specific impairments, such as tension pain.

Improving the self-efficacy of caregivers of children with seizures using evidence-based practice

BackgroundEpilepsy is considered a widespread chronic illness; it is estimated that approximately 1% of all children have the condition. Parents and caregivers of children with seizures experience fear and anxiety relative to their perceived confidence to manage their child's seizures after leaving the hospital. Evidence supports the use of simulation to educate caregivers to improve their perceived level of self-efficacy. MethodsThe evidence-based practice project examined the impact of utilizing a simulation training session on the self-efficacy of caregivers of children with seizures at a large pediatric medical center in the southern United States. Caregivers of children with newly diagnosed seizures or with a recent change to their seizure treatment plan attended a simulation training session individualized to their discharge instructions. Demographic data, pre- and post-training self-efficacy measurements, and program satisfaction data were collected. FindingsThe 31 caregivers who participated during the 3-month implementation period experienced a statistically significant increase in self-efficacy (p < .0001 to 0.002) and reported being satisfied with the simulation education training. DiscussionThe project outcomes suggested simulation training was an effective method for improving the self-efficacy of caregivers of children with seizures and could be a feasible practice change at organizations with access to simulation technology. Application to practiceThe outcomes of the project aligned with the evidence available in the literature. The results reinforced that education that includes simulated learning opportunities was generally well-received by caregivers and may improve their confidence to care for their child after discharge.

Effect of contraction type at varying angular velocities on isokinetic muscle strength training.

The aim of this study is to determine whether concentric and eccentric isokinetic training performed at certain angular velocities in sedentary individuals is effective only in the angular velocities and contraction type where the training is performed, or at other angular velocities and contraction types that are not being trained. Twenty-eight sedentary individuals (matched according to weight, age and gender) volunteered to participate in this case study. The study was conducted on a total of 56 extremities belonging to 28 individuals (14 women, 14 men) aged between 24 and 60 years. Concentric and eccentric strength tests were performed at 30-60-90-120-150-180°/sec. The participants were randomly divided into two groups as concentric training group and eccentric training group, through stratified randomization matching. The training was done 3 days a week for a total of 6 weeks. At the end of the study, no difference was found between the pre- and posttraining measurements in the concentric training group (P>0.05). In the eccentric training group, the eccentric muscle strength of the knee flexors and extensors at angular velocity of 90°/sec, the eccentric strength of the knee extensors at angular velocity of 120°/sec, and the eccentric muscle strength of the knee flexors at angular velocity of 180°/sec were found to be different and an increase was seen after the training (P=0.032, P=0.049, P=0.041, P=0.032). These results demonstrate that eccentric training may be preferred in cases where muscle strength increase is needed in short time.

Evaluating the correlation of blood pressure and pulse rates of firefighters with their sociodemographic characteristics during a fire and rescue training

Introduction: Cardiac strain has become a prevalent cause of firefighters’ death. Standards and regulations set forth a framework to monitor the cardiovascular fitness of firefighters, encourage fitness and create a pathway to diagnosis or detection of disorders. The effectiveness of these standards relies on continuous evaluation of firefighters’ health and updating the protocols. Methods: This study intended to assess the physiological response of 172 firefighters in the middle east for the first time and considered the effect of body mass index, age, gender, and seasonal ambient temperature on their responses before and after a fire and rescue training. The end results should compile the behavioral patterns of firefighters from the region and help authorities to update current health monitoring standards for firefighters accordingly. Blood pressure, heart and respiratory rates were sampled for participants after one minute after when training finished. Non-Parametric statistical analysis was conducted using Nonparametric Spearman rank correlation coefficients and Kruskal-Wallis H- test to evaluate the correlation of age, gender, BMI, and seasonal temperature with participant’s physiological response. Results: This study found obesity in 20% of the sampled population with more cases among male participants. Also, in this study, the hypertension prevalence ratio found as 19.8% at baseline and 26.7% in post-training measurements. Conclusion: This study could confirm that body mass index and seasonal ambient temperature affect blood pressure, heart and ventilation rates. Heart rate significantly changes with ambient temperature. Also, the results found the gender of participants affects all physiological responses, especially heart rate.

Effects of moderate- vs. high-intensity interval training on physical fitness, enjoyment, and affective valence in overweight/obese female adolescents: a pre-/post-test study.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 12-week moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT) vs. high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on body composition, physical fitness, and psychological valence in overweight/obese (OW/OB) female adolescents. Thirty-eight OW/OB female students were randomized into HIIT (n=13), MIIT (n=13) or control (n=12) groups. The participants underwent a 12-week interval-training program at 100% to 110% and 60% to 75% of maximal aerobic speed for HIIT and MIIT, respectively. The control group kept their usual physical activity without completing the training program. Pre- and post-training measurements were performed to assess body composition, aerobic capacity, and anaerobic performance (using selected tests evaluating speed, jumping ability, and strength). Ratings of perceived exertion and the feeling scale were evaluated every three weeks. Enjoyment was measured at the end of the program. A two-way analysis of variance with repeated measurements was applied to test for "group×time" interactions for body composition, physical fitness, and affective variables. Significant "group×time" interactions were detected for aerobic and anaerobic performance, body composition indices, and the feeling scale. HIIT resulted in more noticeable improvements in body composition and physical performance than MIIT, while no significant changes were found in the control group. Throughout the program, the feeling score has progressively increased in the MIIT group but decreased in the HIIT group. Ratings of the perceived exertion have increased in both groups, more noticeably in the HIIT group. At the end of the program, the MIIT group showed a higher enjoyment score. Despite offering better body composition improvement and physical fitness enhancement, HIIT offered lesser enjoyment and affective valence than MIIT in OW/OB female adolescents. MIIT might be an alternative time-efficient protocol for improving health in this population.

Aprendizaje autónomo de vocabulario del inglés como lengua extranjera usando recursos multimedia

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of using multimedia resources on the English vocabulary learning as a foreign language in a sample of university students. Following a quantitative approach, a quasi-experimental, longitudinal-prospective study was conducted with 62 university students (42.6% women with mean age of 20.9 and 57.4% man with mean age of 20.6); previously divided into three different groups. For pre and post-training measurements, two instruments were used in their forms A and B, validated in previous studies. As a secondary goal, the influence of the cognates present in both tests on the score and the way of asking them was verified, in consequence an instrument of own design was applied. During the training, the use of lessons from a virtual platform made it possible to present multimedia resources and evaluate autonomous learning in formative manner. In the post-test, only one type of test was applied to each group, detecting significant improvement in three out of the four original instruments. However, the results should be treated with reservations due to the limitation represented by sample size and conduct of the study, in distance mode.

Effects of Unilateral Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation with Illusionary Mirror Visual Feedback on the Contralateral Muscle: A Pilot Study.

We aim to examine the cross-education effects of unilateral muscle neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) training combined with illusionary mirror visual feedback (MVF). Fifteen adults (NMES + MVF: 5; NMES: 5, Control: 5) completed this study. The experimental groups completed a 3-week NMES training on their dominant elbow flexor muscle. The NMES + MVF group had a mirror placed in the midsagittal plane between their upper arms, so a visual illusion was created in which their non-dominant arms appeared to be stimulated. Baseline and post-training measurements included both arms' isometric strength, voluntary activation level, and resting twitch. Cross-education effects were not observed from all dependent variables. For the unilateral muscle, both experimental groups showed greater strength increases when compared to the control (isometric strength % changes: NMES + MVF vs. NMES vs. Control = 6.31 ± 4.56% vs. 4.72 ± 8.97% vs. -4.04 ± 3.85%, p < 0.05). Throughout the training, even with the maximally tolerated NMES, the NMES + MVF group had greater perceived exertion and discomfort than the NMES. Additionally, the NMES-evoked force increased throughout the training for both groups. Our data does not support that NMES combined with or without MVF induces cross-education. However, the stimulated muscle becomes more responsive to the NMES and can become stronger following the training.

Effects of Plyometric Training Direction on Physical Performance in Basketball Players.

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of plyometric training direction on jumping, sprinting, and change-of-direction ability in basketball players. Forty male basketball players (21.8 [3.8]y), from 4 teams that competed in regional and national championships, were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups: (1)vertical jump group, (2)horizontal jump group, (3)vertical and horizontal jump group, and (4)control group. The subjects followed a plyometric training program twice a week for 6weeks, differing in the execution direction of the jumps. All groups performed the same total training volume of acyclic and cyclic jumps controlled through the number of contacts per session. Pretraining and posttraining measurements included (1)rocket jump, (2)Abalakov jump, (3)horizontal jump, (4)20-m linear sprint, and (5)V-Cut change-of-direction test. The vertical and horizontal jump group showed significant increases in all performance variables examined, except for linear sprint performance, in which no group improved. The vertical jump group showed significant improvements in rocket jump and Abalakov jump (P < .01), but worsened significantly in terms of sprint performance (P < .05). The horizontal jump group showed significant increases in rocket jump and horizontal jump (P < .001-.01). Furthermore, all experimental groups showed improved V-Cut change-of-direction test performance. These results indicate that combining vertical and horizontal jumps induces improvements in more capabilities than does training only vertical or horizontal jumps with the same training volume. Training only vertical or horizontal jumps will improve performance mainly in vertically or horizontally oriented tasks, respectively.

Evaluating probable predictors for fall related wrist fracture among the elderly population in a tertiary care hospital, Bhubaneswar

Wrist fractures are one among the common injuries of the elderly leading to reduced quality of life and impaired functionality, if not treated and restored adequately. Factors like asymmetry of vestibular function, decreased plantar sensation, unstable posture and functional disability have been more commonly associated with fall related wrist fractures among the geriatric population. Since wrist fractures are considered as an indicator for fracture incidence in the future specially for hip fractures, preventive measures like improving balance, function of the balance system in the inner ear and feeling in people’s feet can be timely adopted which in addition might be helpful in rehabilitation of patients with fractured wrist.To determine effect of multi sensory training (MST) on posture (muscle strength), vestibular function, vibration perception, tactile sensation and functional ability compared to wrist stabilization training (WT) among elderly with fall related wrist fractures.Experimental research design was adopted for the study among the 130 follow up cases of wrist fracture where 88 participants were randomized to Multi Sensory Training and 42 received Wrist stabilization Training. The training period was 12 weeks, with 4 supervised sessions by a physiotherapist and home exercises for both groups. Pre and post training measurements included Head Shake Test (HST), Semmes–Weinstein Monofilaments (SWM), Vibration perception Test, 10m Walk Test (10MWT), Five Times Sit to Stand Test (FTSTS), Activities Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory Scales (DHI). FTSTS, ABC, DHI were found to be statistically significant between the 2 groups. In contrast to wrist stabilization training, MST was more helpful in improving HST (p=0.001). Vestibular function among the cases of wrist fracture was better with Multi Sensory Training. It may be applied as a routine training intervention post fracture treatment. A robust sample size can be taken up to generalize its effectiveness.

The Effect of High Intensity Interval Training on Agility Performance

Background and Study Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of high intensity interval training (HIIT) on agility performances of male football and volleyball players in university teams. Material and Methods: 10 non-elite male football players (mean age 21.17 ± 0.70 years, mean height 176.88 ± 4.86 cm, and mean weight 79.12 ± 8.31 kg) and 10 non-elite male volleyball players (mean age 20.84 ± 1.54 years, mean height 185.41 ± 8.31 cm, and mean weight 78.93 ± 8.85 kg) volunteered for the study. The participants performed HIIT (30 sec exercise/30 sec rest) twice a week for four weeks. Agility T test was performed with the participants before and after the training. Results: There found no statistical difference (p&gt;0.05) in terms of the agility performance values of the male football and volleyball players before and after the training. The pre and post training measurements after Yo-Yo IRT 1 showed that while the group with the football players did not recover in their agility performances up to 48 hours, the volleyball players were able to recover 48 hours after the training. Conclusion: It was found out that HIIT practises had no effect on improving agility time; however, it was effective in recovery of agility time post Yo-Yo IRT 1. Keywords: football, volleyball, agility, high intensity interval training

The Effects of Exergaming on Sensory Reweighting and Mediolateral Stability of Women Aged Over 60: Usability Study.

BackgroundOlder adults tend to experience difficulties in switching quickly between various reliable sensory inputs, which ultimately may contribute to an increased risk of falls and injuries. Sideward falls are the most frequent cause of hip fractures among older adults. Recently, exergame programs have been confirmed as beneficial tools for enhancing postural control, which can reduce the risk of falls. However, studies to explore more precisely which mechanism of exergaming directly influences older women’s ability to balance are still needed.ObjectiveOur aim was to evaluate, in a single-group pretest/posttest/follow-up usability study, whether Kinect exergame balance training might have a beneficial impact on the sensory reweighting in women aged over 60.MethodsA total of 14 healthy women (mean age 69.57 [SD 4.66] years, mean body mass index 26.21 [SD 2.6] kg/m2) participated in the study. The volunteers trained with the commercially available games of Kinect for Xbox 360 console 3 times (30 minutes/session) a week over a 6-week period (total of 18 visits). Participants’ postural sway in both the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions was recorded with NeuroCom Balance Master 6.0. To assess and measure postural sensory reweighting, the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance was used, where volunteers were exposed to various changes in visual (eyes open or eyes closed) and surface conditions (firm or foam surface).ResultsIn the ML direction, the Kinect exergame training caused a significant decrease in the sway path on the firm surface with the eyes open (P<.001) and eyes closed (P=.001), and on the foam surface with the eyes open (P=.001) and eyes closed (P<.001) conditions compared with baseline data. The follow-up measurements when compared with the baseline data showed a significant change in the sway path on the firm surface with the eyes open (P<.001) and eyes closed (P<.001) conditions, as well as on the foam surface with the eyes open (P=.003) and eyes closed (P<.001) conditions. Besides, on the firm surface, there were no significant differences in sway path values in the AP direction between the baseline and the posttraining measurements (eyes open: P=.49; eyes closed: P=.18). Likewise, on the foam surface, there were no significant differences in sway path values in the AP direction under both eyes open (P=.24) and eyes closed (P=.84) conditions.ConclusionsThe improved posturography measurements of the sway path in the ML direction might suggest that the Kinect exergame balance training may have effects on sensory reweighting, and thus on the balance of women aged over 60. Based on these results, Kinect exergaming may provide a safe and potentially useful tool for improving postural stability in the crucial ML direction, and thus it may help reduce the risk of falling.

The effect of occupation-based postural stability training on postural stability and occupational performance in visually impaired individuals: A randomised controlled trial

Introduction The purpose of this research was to examine the effect of occupation-based postural stability training on occupational performance and postural stability in visually impaired individuals. Method The research was designed as pre-test/post-test, with two groups (study group and control group). A total of 34 individuals with visual impairment were randomly assigned to the two groups. Participants were evaluated using a sociodemographic information form, the Biodex Balance System for postural stability, the Canadian Occupational Performance Measurement for assessing performance and satisfaction of occupations and the semi-structured interview form. The control group received only postural stability training with the Biodex Balance System and the study group received individualised occupation-based postural stability training with the Biodex Balance System BBS during a 12-week intervention (24 sessions). Results A statistically significant difference was found between the postural stability values of the study group and the control group when looking at pre and post-training measurements ( p &lt; 0.05). It was observed that there was an improvement in the postural stability of the participants in both groups. There was a statistically significant increase in the occupational performance and satisfaction of participants in the study group ( p &lt; 0.01). Conclusion Adding person-centred, meaningful and purposeful occupations into rehabilitation programmes that use technological devices increases functionality in activities of daily living.