Physical exercise and prevention of falls. Effects of a Pilates training method compared with a general physical activity program: A randomized controlled trial. Issue 13 (2nd April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Patti, Antonino; Zangla, Daniele; Sahin, Fatma Nese; Cataldi, Stefania; Lavanco, Gioacchino; Palma, Antonio; Fischietti, Francesco
• Other Names: Niknamian. Sorush section editor.
• Is Part Of: Medicine. Volume 100:Issue 13(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04-02
• Subjects: pilates -- exercise -- falls -- balance -- posture -- physical activity program; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Périodiques; Geneeskunde; Medicine; Periodicals; Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000025289
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-7974

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Falls are the leading cause of injury-related mortality and morbidity in the elderly. Physical activity plays a key role in the prevention of falls and stimulates postural control. The aim of this study was to compare a general physical activity program for the elderly with a Pilates program to evaluate the effects on balance and on reducing the risk of falling. Materials and Methods: Forty-six subjects were enrolled in this study, but only 41 were included in the study. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: Pilates group (P-G) and a group following a nonspecific program of physical activity (Pa-G). Each subject underwent the hand grip test, Berg balance scale test, and posturographic analysis. Results: Spearman correlation coefficient showed correlations between the following parameters: BBS versus hand grip test ( r = 0.68); BBS versus ellipse surface area ( r = −0.75). There were significant differences between groups after the exercise program: both groups showed an improvement in performance but the P-G recorded significantly better results than the Pa-G. Discussion and conclusions: This study confirmed that physical activity improves both balance and strength. However, our data show that Pilates has a greater effect on these physical abilities than a general physical activity program.