Significant Improvement In Balance Research Articles

The effect of neurofeedback and somatosensory exercises on balance and physical performance of older adults: a parallel single-blinded randomized controlled trial

This study examines the effects of a 5-week program of neurofeedback combined with somatosensory exercises on balance and physical performance in older adults, with the goal of addressing age-related declines in sensory processing and motor function. Sixty older adult men with balance disorders were randomly assigned to one of three groups: neurofeedback combined with somatosensory training, somatosensory training alone, or a control group. The interventions were administered over 5 weeks, with participants attending three sessions per week. Assessments were conducted both before and after the intervention period, including measurements of static balance using the Stork test, dynamic balance using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and physical performance using the Continuous Scale Physical Functional Performance-10 (CS-PFP-10) test. The findings revealed significant improvements in balance and physical performance among participants who received either neurofeedback combined with somatosensory training or somatosensory training alone. Specifically, the Stork test (with both open and closed eyes) showed significant increases in duration, while the TUG test indicated reductions in completion times for both intervention groups (p = 0.001), suggesting enhanced balance and mobility. Additionally, the CS-PFP-10 test results demonstrated a significant difference following the interventions (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that incorporating neurofeedback training into somatosensory exercises may provide additional benefits for older adults in improving balance and mobility.

The Effect of Tai Chi (Bafa Wubu) Training and Artificial Intelligence-Based Movement-Precision Feedback on the Mental and Physical Outcomes of Elderly.

(1) Background: This study aims to compare the effects of AI-based exercise feedback and standard training on the physical and mental health outcomes of older adults participating in a 4-week tai chi training program. (2) Methods: Participants were divided into three groups: an AI feedback group received real-time movement accuracy feedback based on AI and inertial measurement units (IMUs), a conventional feedback group received verbal feedback from supervisors, and a control group received no feedback. All groups trained three times per week for 8 weeks. Outcome measures, including movement accuracy, balance, grip strength, quality of life, and depression, were assessed before and after the training period. (3) Results: Compared to pre-training, all three groups showed significant improvements in movement accuracy, grip strength, quality of life, and depression. Only the AI feedback group showed significant improvements in balance. In terms of movement accuracy and balance, the AI feedback group showed significantly greater improvement compared to the conventional feedback group and the control group. (4) Conclusions: Providing real-time AI-based movement feedback during tai chi training offers greater health benefits for older adults compared to standard training without feedback.

Using the Nintendo™ Wii to Improve Physical Function and Reduce the Risk of Falls in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

(1) Background: Numerous exercise programs that improve physical capacity and the risk of falls in older adults have been proposed with varying degrees of success. A novel approach may be to use a video game system that uses real-time force feedback to train older adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a Nintendo™ Wii-based exercise program on physical function and risk of falls in older people. (2) Methods: This 12-week randomized controlled clinical trial involved 73 participants: 36 individuals participating in a control group (CG) and 37 in an experimental group (EG) participating in a combined program. Balance was measured using the Tinetti scale, flexibility was assessed with the back scratch test and the sit-and-reach test, and lower body strength was assessed with the 30 s chair stand-up test. (3) Results: The results of this study show significant improvements in balance, gait, flexibility, and strength of the lower limbs compared to a control group. (4) Conclusions: A Nintendo™ Wii-based exercise program for seniors produces improvements in the physical health of older adults. These improvements highlight the importance of integrating physical exercise through video games as an effective strategy to improve the general health and quality of life of older adults.

The Effect of Rood's Ontogenic Motor Patterns on Trunk Control and Balance in Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy Children

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neuromotor disorder affecting movement, muscle tone, and posture due to brain injury during early development. Effective interventions are essential for improving functional outcomes in children with spastic diplegic CP.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Rood's Ontogenic Motor Patterns (ROMP) on trunk control and balance in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy.Methods: A single-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted with 22 children aged 3-10 years, diagnosed with spastic diplegic CP. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A received Functional Electrical Stimulation with ROMP, and Group B received conventional physical therapy. The intervention lasted five weeks, with three sessions per week. Outcomes were assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale, Gross Motor Function Measurement Scale (GMFM-88), and Pediatric Berg Balance Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27.Results: Group A showed significant improvement in balance (PBBS: pre 13.81 ± 1.64, post 24.18 ± 4.67; p=0.017) and GMFM-88 scores (pre 9.95 ± 109.50, post 15.73 ± 173.0; p<0.001). Spasticity reduced significantly in the ROMP group (MAS: pre 11.50 ± 126.50, post 7.30 ± 73.00; p=0.010).Conclusion: ROMP significantly improved balance and reduced spasticity in children with spastic diplegic CP compared to conventional therapy, suggesting its potential integration into rehabilitation programs.

Electromyography-Triggered Constraint-Induced Movement Cycling Therapy for Enhancing Motor Function in Chronic Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This single-blind randomized controlled trial investigated the effectiveness of surface electromyography (sEMG)-triggered constraint-induced movement cycling therapy (CIMCT) in improving balance, lower extremity strength, and activities of daily living in patients with chronic stroke. The participants included patients with chronic stroke-induced hemiplegia who had been diagnosed for more than 6 months, with a minimum score of 24 points on the Mini-Mental State Examination and above level 3 on the Brunnstrom stages. The trial lasted 4 weeks and participants were divided into a CIMCT group and a general cycling training (GCT) group. The CIMCT group (n = 20) used an sEMG-triggered constrained-induced movement therapy device, whereas the GCT group (n = 19) used a standard stationary bicycle. The primary outcome measures showed a significant increase in muscle strength on the affected side in the CIMCT group, as assessed by a manual muscle tester (p < 0.05), with a large effect size (d = 1.86), while no meaningful improvement was observed in the GCT group. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in dynamic balance, as measured by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (p < 0.05), with the CIMCT group showing superior results compared to the GCT group, reflected by a large effect size (d = 0.96). Additionally, both groups showed significant improvements in balance as assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Functional Reach Test (FRT). The CIMCT group exhibited more pronounced improvements than the GCT group, with large effect sizes of 0.83 for the BBS and 1.25 for the FRT. The secondary outcome measures revealed significant improvements in activities of daily living in both groups, as assessed by the modified Barthel index (MBI), with the CIMCT group achieving a substantial improvement (p < 0.05), accompanied by a large effect size (d = 0.87). This study concludes that sEMG-triggered CIMCT effectively improved muscle strength, postural balance, and activities of daily living in patients with chronic stroke.

The Effects of Exergaming on Fear of Falling and the Balance Function in Anxious and Non-Anxious Older Adults: A Pilot Study

ABSTRACT Background Anxiety can exacerbate fear of falling and balance issues, potentially affecting intervention efficacy. This study examines exergaming’s impact on fear of falling and balance in anxious and non-anxious older adults. Materials and Methods Twenty older adults (10 anxious, 10 non-anxious) participated in six weeks of balance-oriented gaming. Fear of falling was assessed using the Falls Efficacy Scale and the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale. Balance was measured with the Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up and Go Test before, after, and six weeks post-intervention. Results Both groups showed significant improvements in balance and mobility, sustained during follow-up. However, only the non-anxious group exhibited significant reductions in fear of falling and increased balance confidence. Anxiety was linked to reduced enjoyment, lower efficacy perception, and heightened tension during the intervention. Conclusion Exergaming improves balance and reduces fear of falling in non-anxious older adults. Anxiety may diminish these benefits. Clinical implications Assessing anxiety levels is crucial when prescribing exergaming interventions. Tailoring treatments to address anxiety could enhance outcomes.

Effects of Lower Limb Proprioceptive Training on Balance and Trunk Control Among the Adult Stroke Population.

Background and objective Balance and trunk control are major concerns among older adults during stroke rehabilitation. Loss of proprioception in the affected limb has a greater influence on motor learning and reeducation during balance training. Available studies stress the relevance of strength and functional training in regaining balance and trunk control. Proprioception training, in addition to available rehabilitation, can optimize the balance among this population. Our study aimed to find out the effects of proprioceptive training on balance and trunk control among the chronic stroke population. Methodology Out of 45 subjects enrolled at the Indian Head Injury Foundation, New Delhi, India, 30 subjects were selected based on selection criteria and randomized into two groups using the chit method, with 15 subjects in each group. The control group received conventional training, which included a range of motion, stretching, and strengthening exercises, while the intervention group received additional proprioceptive training five days per week for four consecutive weeks. Subjects were assessed on the Berg Balance Scale and Trunk Control Test for balance and trunk control on day one and after four weeks. A paired t-test was used to analyze the difference within the groups, and unpaired t-tests were used between the groups, keeping p < 0.05 as a significance level. Results After four weeks of intervention, statistically significant improvements were seen in the balance and trunk control groups, with p < 0.05 in both groups. However, a significant improvement in balance was observed in the experimental group when compared across groups (p = 0.001), whereas no statistically significant improvement in trunk control was found (p = 0.061). Conclusion We conclude that proprioceptive training and conventional physiotherapy both help to improve balance. Proprioceptive training is better for improving balance, but it has no significant effects on trunk control. It is likely that an extended intervention time or a different form of intervention may be required to achieve substantial gains in these areas. Future research might look at other outcome measures or the impacts of other types of therapies to see which ones are most helpful at increasing trunk control.

Effects of Vestibular vs. Somatosensory Rehabilitation on Balance and Quality of Life of Sub-acute Stroke Patients with Vestibular Syndrome

Background: Stroke is one of the most common causes of disability worldwide, affecting millions of people per year, and it has a large burden on health care systems. In the early subacute phase, patients who survive a stroke usually show impairments in balance, often due to sensory and vestibular deficits; this influences their quality of life. Methods: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness of vestibular and somatosensory interventions on balance and quality of life in early subacute stroke patients with vestibular syndrome. Fifty-two patients were randomly divided into a vestibular or somatosensory rehabilitation group or a control group receiving usual care. The trial was completed by 49 patients who were evaluated onon the Berg Balance Scale and the Vestibular Quality of Life Questionnaire at baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention. Results: The study found that both vestibular and somatosensory rehabilitation interventions led to significant improvements in balance, as indicated by the Berg Balance Scale scores, and quality of life, based on vestibular Quality of Life Questionnaire scores, compared to the control group (p&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference between the two intervention groups in terms of their impact on either balance or quality of life outcomes. Conclusion: Vestibular and somatosensory rehabilitation interventions represent effective strategies for improving balance and quality of life in early subacute stroke patients with vestibular syndrome. These findings underline the importance of including targeted rehabilitation approaches within stroke care protocols to achieve optimal functional outcomes and long-term recovery. Keywords: Balance, Stroke, Quality of Life, Vestibular Symptoms.

Effects of closed kinetic chain exercises on balance and gait in people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

IntroductionBalance and gait impairments are among the most common consequences of multiple sclerosis (MS). A closed kinetic chain enhances balance and gait abilities in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This study aims to compare the effectiveness of an integrated Telko and conventional physical therapy (CPT) intervention versus CPT alone on gait and balance in PwMS. MethodsTwenty-six PwMS were enrolled in the trial, and they were randomized to either the combined Telko and CPT experimental group (n = 13) or the CPT alone control group (n = 13). All participants underwent 15-min sessions of CPT three times a week for four weeks. Additionally, participants in the experimental group received a 15-min Telko training session after each CPT session. Outcome measures consisted of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) assessment. ResultsTwenty-four PwMS completed the study. The PwMS in the combined Telko and CPT experimental group exhibited significant improvements in balance, functional capacity, gait speed, and mobility following the intervention (P < 0.05). In the CPT group, PwMS also experienced significant improvements in functional capacity (P < 0.05). The between-group analysis revealed no significant differences among the outcome measures (P > 0.05). ConclusionsThe combined Telko and CPT intervention did not demonstrate superiority over CPT alone in improving balance and gait in PwMS. Further experimental studies are necessary to fully understand the effects of a closed kinetic chain for lower extremities on the balance and gait of individuals with PwMS.

#596 The Borg Scale—efficient and safe for exercise prescription in self-administered balance and strength exercise in patients with CKD

Abstract Background and Aims With the continued rise in chronic kidney disease (CKD), there is a critical need for sustainable, home-based exercise interventions. While supervised, centre-based exercise improves physical performance in CKD patients, unsupervised, self-administered exercise poses challenges in ensuring adherence, safety, and efficacy. This study investigates the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale, a subjective measure of exertion, as a method for prescribing and monitoring the intensity of balance and strength exercise in non-dialysis dependent CKD patients. The aims of this study were: Method This sub study of the RENEXC-trial included 148 patients with CKD stages 3-5, with a mean age of 66 ± 14 years and mean measured GFR of 22 ± 8 ml/min/1.73 m2. Patients were prescribed 90 minutes/week of balance or strength exercise at a Borg RPE of 13-17 (corresponding to an exercise intensity of somewhat hard to very hard), along with 60 minutes/week of endurance exercise. Exercise programs were individually prescribed by a physiotherapist according to randomization and each patient's baseline performance and were performed at home or in a gym according to the patient's preference. Duration and RPE of the performed exercise were reported in an exercise diary. Progress was monitored by the physiotherapist through phone contact, every week for the first three months of the study and every other week for the rest of the study year. The continuous follow up provided motivation and enabled adjustments of the exercise program to maintain the goal RPE, adapt intensity and the weekly duration of exercise. Outcome measures included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Functional Reach Test (FRT), the 30-second sit-to-stand test (30STS) and isometric quadriceps strength (IQS). Balance and strength measures were evaluated at baseline and after 12 months of exercise. Previous publications of the RENEXC-trial showed no difference between patients who performed balance exercise and patients who performed strength exercise; therefore, this sub-study analysed all included patients as one group. Results Of 148 participants, 112 completed the study. At 12 months, 79% reported performed exercise, with 86% of these patients adhering to the prescribed intensity. The median (25th-75th percentile) exercise intensity was a RPE of 14 (13-15) on the Borg scale, and the median (min-max) exercise duration was 48 (0-241) minutes/week. Only 18% of the patients reached the 90-minute/week target. No exercise-related incidents were reported. Significant improvements were noted in BBS (p = 0.0464), FRT (p = 0.009), 30STS (p = 0.047), and IQS (right/left p = 0.022 / p = 0.049). Conclusion The Borg RPE scale is an effective and safe method for prescribing and monitoring self-administered balance and strength exercise in patients with CKD. Using the Borg scale for prescribing and monitoring exercise intensity during balance and strength exercise resulted in a good level of adherence to the 12-months exercise program and the prescribed exercise intensity. As no exercise related incidents were reported, we conclude that the self-administered exercise was safe to perform. Significant improvements in balance and strength were observed with a moderate to high exercise intensity prescription within a wide range of performed weekly duration of exercise, suggesting the Borg scale's value in exercise prescription in both well- and deconditioned patients with CKD. These findings show that the integration of the Borg scale into routine exercise prescription in people with CKD can promote patient autonomy and efficient resource utilization in healthcare.

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Background. Virtual reality and balancing beam are widely acknowledged as a highly successful approach for improving balance as well as walking performance among children suffering from hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP). Purpose. The aim of this study was to compare between the impact of virtual reality and balance beam on walking performance (balance and functional walking capacity) in children with hemiplegic CP. Subjects and methods. A total of seventy-five children with hemiplegic CP, comprising 31 boys and 44 girls, aged between 7 and 11 years of both genders, were included in this study. The participants were allocated randomly into three groups (n = 25), A (control group) and B, C (study groups). All children received designed physical therapy programs based on neurodevelopmental technique, in addition to balance and gait training exercises for control group A, virtual reality training for group B and balance beam training for group C. The treatment program was administered to each group three times weekly for three consecutive months, lasting one hour each session. All children were examined clinically pre- and post-treatment using HUMAC balance and tilt system, and 6- minutes walking test (6mWT) to assess balance, walking functional capacity respectively. Results. There was a significant improvement in balance and 6MWT of three groups post treatment when contrasted with that pretreatment (p &lt; 0.001). Furthermore, group B and C's measured variables showed a substantial improvement over group A's when compared (p &lt; 0.01), while group B and C did not differ significantly (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusions. Virtual reality and balance beam training have an effective influence on the improvement of balance and walking performance.

The Effectiveness of Toe Flexor Strengthening on Balance and Risk of Fall in Patients with Diabetic Polyneuropathy- A Pilot Study

Background:Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) is relatively common complication of long-term diabetes and isthought to be progressive and irreversible. The loss of sensations associated with Diabetic polyneuropathy isthought to contribute to impaired balance and increased risk of falling. Reduced toe flexor strength is an independentpredictor of falls. However, it is unknown whether strengthening programs can restore toe flexorstrength in patients with DPN.The aim of this study was to investigate whether a progressive resistance training program, focused specifically on the foot &amp; toe flexor muscles, could improve toe flexor strength in patients with DPN.Methods: A total of 20 patients were allocated into two groups of 10 each. Group A receive 12 sessions of (Conventional physiotherapy &amp; Modified toe training programme) and Group B (Conventional physiotherapy &amp; General toe exercise). Berg balance score (BBS), Fall efficacy scale international (FES-I) &amp; Time up and go test (TUG) were measured on first day (Week 1) and last day (Week 4) of intervention. Pre-test and post-test scores were compared and results were tabulated.Result: Both groups showed significant improvement in balance performance. The Group A showed statistically significant improvement in static &amp; functional balance when compared to Group B.Conclusion: The study demonstrated a significant improvement in balance and functional mobility was seenamong Group A.

Effect of Sensory Re-education in Combination with Balance Training on Fall Risk and Quality of Life in Elderly Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Patients: A Pre- and Postclinical Trial

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) being a complication of diabetes affects balance and causes sensory impairment which links to deterioration of quality of life. As the age advances the risk of fall due to DPN also increases, and hence, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of sensory re-education in combination with balance training on fall risk and quality of life in elderly DPN patients. Methodology: This study includes 27 participants meeting the inclusion criteria which include 60–75 of age, who can ambulate with or without assistance and modified Toronto clinical scoring scale ≥6–8. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, and quality of life by EuroQol-5Dimension-5 Level (EQ-5D-5 L), respectively. Those who had diabetic foot ulcers and other neurological impairments were excluded from the study. Results: There was significant improvement in balance quality of life and reduction in fall risk (P = 0.001 &lt;0.05) after 4 weeks of treatment. Conclusion: A significant improvement in balance, quality of life, and reduction of fall risk is seen in older adults with DPN.

Effects of visual feedback balance system combined with weight loss training system on balance and walking ability in the early rehabilitation stage of stroke: a randomized controlled exploratory study.

Previous studies have suggested that the Pro-Kin visual feedback balance system can promote the recovery of balance function in stroke patients. However, this system has not been used effectively in the early stages of stroke rehabilitation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Pro-Kin system combined with weight loss system for the early recovery of balance and walking ability following a stroke. A total of 62 patients who underwent radiological diagnosis of stroke were randomly divided into two groups: a control group (n = 31) and a treatment group (n = 31). Both groups received conventional balance training. The treatment group also received training on the Pro-Kin system in conjunction with a weight loss system. Balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed 'Up & Go' (TUG) test and Pro-Kin system. Walking ability was assessed using the Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC). The tests were performed before the start of treatment and on the 4th week following the training. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups before training. After 4 weeks of training in both groups, there were significant improvements in balance and walking ability. BBS values and FAC were significantly higher (p < 0.01), TUG times, ellipse area and motion trajectory length were significantly reduced (p < 0.01, p < 0.05) after training. The treatment group outperformed the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, there was a positive correlation between balance function and walking ability (p < 0.01). The Pro-Kin system combined with weight loss system is a viable method that promotes early reconstruction of balance and walking ability following a stroke. Clinical trial number ChiCTR1900026370. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojEN.html?proj=43736.

Orienteering and hiking programs for older adults as a model of healthy aging: a randomized clinical trial

Objectives: To compare the effects of orienteering vs hiking on the physical fitness and quality of life of older adults. Methods: A 24-week randomized controlled trial was conducted with 96 participants who were assigned to orienteering (OG), hiking (HG), or a control group (CG) with no intervention. Physical fitness was assessed with the handgrip strength, chair stand, 6-minute walk, sitand-reach, and balance tests, with monitoring of blood pressure (BP) and resting heart rate. Generalized Estimating Equations were used for within- and between-group comparisons, with effect sizes (ES) calculated. Baseline and post-intervention differences were assessed using unpaired and paired tests. Results: Significant improvement in balance were observed, with OG reducing their time by -6.23 seconds (29.1%; ES = 0.83) and HG by -2.12 seconds (9.9%; ES = 0.49), p = 0.017. For paired effects, hemodynamic parameters showed a reduction in systolic (p = 0.014) and diastolic (p &lt; 0.001) BP in the OG and in diastolic BP (p &lt; 0.004) in the HG. Interaction effects were significant for all physical fitness and hemodynamic parameters compared with the CG (p &lt; 0.001) compared with the CG (p = 0.571). Conclusion: Older adults participating in orienteering and hiking experienced improvement in their physical fitness and quality of life, with orienteering showing a greater effect on balance. These activities are valuable for healthy aging programs, as sedentary behavior should be prevented. This trial was registered at the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (REBEC): RBR-99jmmpf.

Comparison of The Effect of a Period of TRX and Yoga Versus Traditional Exercises on Balance of Archers

Archers engage in various exercises to maintain postural stability and balance to achieve peak performance in archery, as balance and fine motor control are critical components of success in this sport. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the effect of a period of TRX and yoga versus traditional exercises on the balance of archers. This study is quasi-experimental with a pre-test and post-test design. The present research is applied in nature and was conducted in the field. The statistical population included all male archers in Tehran Province aged 20 to 40 years. From this population, 30 individuals were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria through convenience sampling and then randomly assigned to three groups: traditional exercises, yoga, and TRX. In the pre-test, the balance in shooting was measured. After completing the measurements, each group received their respective exercises, and at the end of the last training session, the post-test including the measured variables was repeated. To examine the research hypotheses, initially, the normality of the data was checked using the Shapiro-Wilk test, which revealed that the data were not normally distributed. Therefore, non-parametric statistical tests were used for data analysis. The results of the Wilcoxon test indicated that all three types of traditional exercises, yoga, and TRX led to a significant improvement in balance, hand-arm stability, and performance of the archers. In the intergroup comparison using the Kruskal-Wallis test, it was found that there were significant differences among the three groups in the research variables. Pairwise comparisons using the Mann-Whitney U test revealed that TRX, yoga, and traditional exercises, respectively, had the most significant effects. Based on the obtained results, it is suggested that the training programs used in the present research, with priority given to TRX, yoga, and traditional exercises, be recommended for improving the balance of male archers.

Impact of home-based Otago exercise program on activities of daily living and balance in elderly

Background: Balance dysfunction seems to be a common complaint in the elderly making them vulnerable to increased risk of fall. The Otago exercise program (OEP) consists of strength training, exercises to improve balance and cardiovascular function. Fall prevention programs in the elderly are of recent growing research interest; however, limited studies have been done on interventions aiming at enhancing activities of daily living (ADL). The aim of this study was to see the efficacy of OEP in enhancing ADL performance and improving balance in the geriatric population. Aims and Objectives: To study the effect of OEP on ADL, balance, and fall risk in the elderly. Materials and Methods: A sample of 100 subjects was recruited from Navodaya Medical College Hospital and Lalitha-Home for the Aged, Raichur. Balance was assessed with the Berg balance scale, strength was assessed using 30 s sit-to-stand, confidence in ADL performances was evaluated by the activities-specific balance confidence scale, and fall risk assessed by the 7-item Falls Efficacy Scale International. The subjects practiced warm-up, strengthening, and balance exercises of the program thrice a week for 3 months with alternate periods of walking. Results: Statistical analysis showed significant improvements in balance, strength, ADL performances, and reduction of fall risks. Conclusion: The study concludes that OEP improved both static and dynamic balance with enhanced participation in ADL performances and also aids in the decrement of fall risks in the elderly.

Health Benefits of Physical Therapy Interventions in Children Suffering from Down Syndrome. A Systematic Review

Background: Down syndrome is associated with a spectrum of physical and developmental challenges that can impact an individual's quality of life. Physical therapy interventions are commonly employed to address these challenges, aiming to improve physical fitness, strength, and achievement of developmental milestones. However, the extent of their effectiveness is not uniformly documented. Objective: This systematic review sought to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of various physical therapy interventions versus no intervention or standard care in enhancing physical fitness, strength, and developmental milestones in individuals with Down syndrome. Methods: Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of electronic databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Google Scholar was conducted for studies published between January 2000 and December 2022. RCTs and pre-post test studies in English that focused on physical therapy interventions for Down syndrome were included. The PEDro scale was utilized for quality assessment. Data synthesis provided a qualitative summary of the intervention outcomes. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, with a total sample size of 327 individuals with Down syndrome. The review highlighted significant improvements in balance, muscle strength, motor skills, and cognitive function following various physical therapy interventions such as progressive resistance training, treadmill exercises, and the use of virtual reality. The duration of these interventions ranged from 6 weeks to 1 year, demonstrating both short- and long-term benefits. Conclusion: The review substantiates that physical therapy interventions offer considerable benefits in improving the health and developmental outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome. These findings underscore the importance of integrating targeted physical therapy into standard care practices. Nevertheless, further research is warranted to explore the long-term impact and to develop optimal intervention strategies.

Enhancing Cardiovascular Health and Functional Recovery in Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Stroke-Specific and Cardiac Rehabilitation Protocols for Optimized Rehabilitation.

Stroke is a major contributor to disability and mortality globally. It leads to physical impairments, including weakness and cardiovascular deconditioning, posing significant challenges to stroke survivors' quality of life. Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation has shown promise as a rehabilitation strategy. This study aims to assess and compare the impacts of stroke-specific rehabilitation and individualized cardiac rehabilitation exercises on various health parameters in stroke patients. A randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 38 stroke patients aged 40-75 years. Group A received stroke-specific rehabilitation, which consisted of a combination of range of motion exercises, strength training for the paralyzed side, balance and coordination training, gait training, functional mobility exercises, neuromuscular reeducation, and breathing exercises. This program was conducted five days per week for 12 weeks. Group B received individually designed cardiac rehabilitation exercises, in addition to stroke-specific rehabilitation. They engaged in this exercise for at least 30-45 min per day, four days per week, and incorporated two days of resistive training over a 12-week period. Baseline and post-intervention assessments included measures of cardiac autonomic function, balance (Berg Balance Scale), mobility (Timed Up and Go Test), cardiovascular fitness indicators, respiratory parameters, exercise efficiency, and perceived exertion. Group B receiving individualized cardio rehab showed significant improvements in balance and mobility compared to Group A receiving conventional stroke-specific rehab. Moreover, Group B exhibited enhanced cardiovascular fitness, respiratory performance, exercise efficiency, and autonomic function post-intervention. Notably, Group A displayed no significant improvements in these parameters. Individualized cardiac rehabilitation exercises demonstrated favorable outcomes in improving certain health parameters, highlighting the potential benefits of individualized rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients.

The Effectiveness of Home-Based Exergames Training on Cognition and Balance in Older Adults: A Comparative Quasi-Randomized Study of Two Exergame Interventions

Abstract Background and Objectives The effectiveness of exergames on fall risk and related physical and cognitive function in older adults is still unclear, with conflicting findings. The discrepancy in these results could be due to the different components and task-specific demands of individual exergame interventions. This open-label quasi-randomized study aimed to compare the efficacy of 2 different home-based dual-task exergame treatments on cognition, mobility, and balance in older people. Research Design and Methods Fifty older adults (65–85 years of age) were allocated to one of two 8-week exergame interventions: Cognitive-Intensive Exergame Training (CIT) or Physical-Intensive Exergame Training (PIT). Cognitive functions, balance, and mobility were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks. Group × time interaction was measured by repeated-measure ANOVA, and both intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses were performed to assess the effectiveness of exergame interventions. Results ITT analyses showed that improvement in visual processing speed and visuospatial working memory was greater in the CIT group, with a medium effect size (p = .04; η2 = 0.09 and p = .01; η2 = 0.12). The improvement in verbal memory and attention was significant within both groups (p &amp;lt; .05), but this improvement was not different between the groups (p &amp;gt; .05). A significant improvement in balance was also observed in the PIT group, with a medium effect size (p = .04; η2 = 0.09). Although mobility improved significantly in both groups (p &amp;lt; .01), there was no significant difference between groups (p = .08). These results were largely supported by the PP analysis. Discussion and Implications Dual-task exergame training can improve mobility and cognition in older adults. However, the different cognitive and physical demands of these interventions may have varying impacts on fall risk and related physical or cognitive functions. Therefore, a training program that includes both cognitive and physical domains with appropriate intensity is essential for the development of tailored exergame interventions to reduce fall risk in older adults.