Doubts over balance exercise programmes
Wednesday November 9th, 2011
Exercise programmes can help elderly people keep their balance and prevent falls - but dozens of pieces of research have failed to establish the best way of doing it, according to an analysis published today.
Tai
Chi and yoga are among popular ideas that have been assessed for elderly
people.
The latest analysis concludes that cycling and walking do not generally improve balance.
But, according to Professor Tracey Howe, of Glasgow Caledonian University, UK, it is difficult to compare the results claimed for other studies - because there is no consistent way used to test balance.
Some projects used vibrating platforms, some used dance as well as yoga, and some used strengthening exercises.
The findings are reported in The Cochrane Library and involve more than 90 studies involving nearly 10,000 people.
Professor Howe said: "Although the duration and frequency of these exercise programmes vary, in general the effective programmes ran three times a week for a duration of three months and involved exercises that challenged people’s balance while they were standing.
"Interestingly we found that walking and cycling generally do not improve balance, although they have many other beneficial effects."
Cochrane Library November 9 2011
Tags: Alternative Therapy | Elderly Health | Fitness | UK News
Printer friendly page