Effectiveness of weighted torso balance training as an adjunct to conventional balance training on anticipatory and reactive balance in elderly individuals: An experimental study

Background: Most of falls in elderly occur in the event of unexpected external perturbations. For this reason the Anticipatory and Reactive balance should be emphasized upon. Weighted torso balance training (WTBT), though a novel concept, has proved its merit on improving balance in patients with neurological deficits like Stroke, MS etc. This study thus aims towards determining the effectiveness of WTBT on anticipatory and reactive balance in elderly individuals.Subjects and Methods: In this comparative study, 36 patients aging 60-75 yrs and those meeting the selection criteria were selected. Anticipatory and reactive balance was measured using MiniBESTest. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups. Both groups received comprehensive balance training 3 times a week for 3 weeks. The experimental group performed the same exercises while wearing a weighted vest. MiniBESTest was administered post 3 weeks of exercises, data upon checking for normalcy, was analyzed using t-test.Results: Within group analysis of 33 subjects (3 dropouts) for MiniBESTest and its 4 sub components showed statistically significant results (p<0.01) for both groups. Between group analysis showed that WTBT was statistically more significant (p<0.0001) than conventional balance training in improving anticipatory balance, reactive balance, sensory orientation and overall MiniBESTest scores. Conclusion: This study concluded that WTBT as an adjunct to conventional balance training is more effective than conventional balance training alone in improving anticipatory and reactive balance in elderly individuals.