The effectiveness of Pilates on balance and falls in community dwelling older adults.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine whether Pilates is more effective than traditional strength and balance exercises for improving balance measures, balance confidence and reducing falls in community dwelling older adults with fall risk.


METHODS
Thirty-one participants with fall risk were randomly assigned to the Pilates group (PG) or the traditional exercise group (TG). Both groups participated in 12 weeks of exercise, 2 times/week for 1 h.


RESULTS
There was significant improvement in the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale for both the PG (mean difference = 6.31, p < .05) and the TG (mean difference = 7.45, p = .01). The PG also showed significant improvement in the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (mean difference = 10.57, p = .008).


CONCLUSIONS
Both Pilates and traditional balance programs are effective at improving balance measures in community dwelling older adults with fall risk, with the Pilates group showing improved balance confidence.
School of Physical Therapy, University of the Incarnate Word, USA. Electronic address: sharonjosephsPT@gmail.com.
Sharon
S
Josephs
School of Physical Therapy, University of the Incarnate Word, USA; Pyramid Plaza Physical Therapy, USA.
Mary Lee
ML
Pratt
School of Physical Therapy, University of the Incarnate Word, USA.
Emily
E
Calk Meadows
School of Physical Therapy, University of the Incarnate Word, USA.
Stephanie
S
Thurmond
School of Physical Therapy, University of the Incarnate Word, USA.
Amy
A
Wagner
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D026241:Exercise Movement Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D057187:Independent Living; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*
Balance; Balance confidence; Falls; Older adults; Physical therapy; Pilates