Effects of the visual-feedback-based force platform training with functional electric stimulation on the balance and prevention of falls in older adults: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

BackgroundForce platform training with functional electric stimulation aimed at improving balance may be effective in fall prevention for older adults. Aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of the visual-feedback-based force platform balance training with functional electric stimulation on balance and fall prevention in older adults.MethodsA single-centre, unblinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted. One hundred and twenty older adults were randomly allocated to two groups: the control group (n = 60, one-leg standing balance exercise, 12 min/d) or the intervention group (n = 60, force platform training with functional electric stimulation, 12 min/d). The training was provided 15 days a month for 3 months by physical therapists. Medial–lateral and anterior–posterior maximal range of sway with eyes open and closed, the Berg Balance Scale, the Barthel Index, the Falls Efficacy scale-International were assessed at baseline and after the 3-month intervention. A fall diary was kept by each participant during the 6-month follow-up.ResultsOn comparing the two groups, the intervention group showed significantly decreased (p < 0.01) medial–lateral and anterior–posterior maximal range of sway with eyes open and closed. There was significantly higher improvement in the Berg Balance Scale (p < 0.05), the Barthel Index (p < 0.05) and the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (p < 0.05), along with significantly lesser number of injurious fallers (p < 0.05), number of fallers (p < 0.05), and fall rates (p < 0.05) during the 6-month follow-up in the intervention group.ConclusionThis study showed that the visual feedback-based force platform training with functional electric stimulation improved balance and prevented falls in older adults.

Sarcopenia as a Mediator of the Effect of a Gerontogymnastics Program on Cardiorespiratory Fitness of Overweight and Obese Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…The loss of muscle mass and strength increases the risk of falls and potential fractures and contributes to the loss of functionality, impedes the older individual’s ability to live independently [ 10 ], and results in a worse quality of life of a person [ 11 , 12 , 13 ]. The ability of the leg muscles to produce strength is a key factor in maintaining the older person’s balance and walking speed [ 14 ]. According to the definition by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) [ 3 , 15 ], the diagnosis of sarcopenia can be made by assessing the low muscle mass, plus low muscle strength or low physical performance.…”

The Effect of Reciprocal Learning Methods Assisted Feedback Visual on Learning Students Learning Outcomes in Junior High School and High School

“…The main purpose of artificial or additional feedback is to attract students' attention to these intrinsic abilities and help students to use them to achieve maximum results. Visual feedback can also improve balance and ability better in carrying out daily activities (Zhen Li, etc all., 2018).…”

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“…However, the expectation that participants placed on the placebo substance may not have been able to influence the results. In addition, the methods of presenting the benefits of placebo have been discussed, and such an approach, which emphasizes positive effects on the individual, may influence the desired results (Li et al, 2018). Thus, a presentation approach with a greater emphasis on the benefits of placebo could have influenced our results.…”