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TITLE. Effectiveness of unstable mini-boards to improve balance in institutionalised old people diagnosed by Backward Disequilibrium Syndrome. Randomised controlled trial. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. BDS is a postural disorder which implies a posterior shift of a person's centre of gravity regarding their base of support, which increases falling risks. This study aims to determine whether a specific protocol with the use of unstable mini-boards can improve balance and motion in institutionalised old people diagnosed with BDS. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Single-blinded, two-group, randomised controlled clinical trial. Patients were institutionalised adults, age between 68 and 97, diagnosed with Backward Disequilibrium Syndrome (n=77). The intervention group underwent a specific 12-week proprioception and balance exercise programme. The control group continued receiving the conventional treatment they had been receiving so far. Outcomes were assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) scale, at baseline, weeks 6, 8 and 12. RESULTS/DISCUSSION. Size was n=48 for the intervention group; n=29 for the control group, which was considered as well-balanced, for all analysis factors. Results showed a mean reduction of 2.80 seconds for the TUG in the intervention group in comparision with the control one. CONCLUSIONS. The use of mini-boards has proven to be a more effective method of treatment than conventional therapy, achieving greater improvements in balance. Results for TUG were satisfactory, given the characteristics of the target population. The low baseline TUG ratings have determined less capacity to improve balance. KEY WORDS. Physical therapy modalities, proprioception, aged, postural balance, exercise therapy, accidental falls. |
