Dynamic balance and stepping versus tai chi training to improve balance and stepping in at-risk older adults.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effect of two 10-week balance training programs, Combined Balance and Step Training (CBST) versus tai chi (TC), on balance and stepping measures.


METHODS
Prospective intervention trial.


METHODS
Local senior centers and congregate housing facilities.


METHODS
Aged 65 and older with at least mild impairment in the ability to perform unipedal stance and tandem walk.


METHODS
Participants were allocated to TC (n = 107, mean age 78) or CBST, an intervention focused on improving dynamic balance and stepping (n = 106, mean age 78).


METHODS
At baseline and 10 weeks, participants were tested in their static balance (Unipedal Stance and Tandem Stance (TS)), stepping (Maximum Step Length, Rapid Step Test), and Timed Up and Go (TUG).


RESULTS
Performance improved more with CBST than TC, ranging from 5% to 10% for the stepping tests (Maximum Step Length and Rapid Step Test) and 9% for TUG. The improvement in TUG represented an improvement of more than 1 second. Greater improvements were also seen in static balance ability (in TS) with CBST than TC.


CONCLUSIONS
Of the two training programs, in which variants of each program have been proven to reduce falls, CBST results in modest improvements in balance, stepping, and functional mobility versus TC over a 10-week period. Future research should include a prospective comparison of fall rates in response to these two balance training programs.
Nnodim
Joseph O
JO
Mobility Research Center, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Strasburg
Debra
D
Nabozny
Martina
M
Nyquist
Linda
L
Galecki
Andrzej
A
Chen
Shu
S
Alexander
Neil B
NB
D000368:Aged; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005853:Geriatrics; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D004856:Postural Balance; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012678:Sensation Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D026302:Tai Ji