Effects of a 12-WEEK proprioceptive and strength exercise program on the gait biomechanical parameters of older...

Older fallers exhibited alterations in gait biomechanical parameters. Guidelines for an exercise program to prevent falls were presented elsewhere, which focused its methodology in improving the gait biomechanical parameters related to falls. This research assessed the effects of a 12-week proprioceptive and strength exercise program on older adults' gait biomechanics, as well as on tests assessing functional capacity and fear of falling (Six-Minute Walk Test, 6MWT; Timed Up and Go test, TUG; Falls Efficacy Scale-International, FES-I).

Non-randomized, single-group pre-post design (participants served as their own controls). Thirty-six older adults were selected (30 females; 70.2 ± 6.3 years). Assessments were performed at baseline, pre-intervention, and post-intervention. Gait kinematics of the lower limbs as well as spatial and temporal parameters were recorded using pressure platforms and inertial sensors during the 6MWT. The distance covered during the 6MWT was also measured. Participants also performed the TUG and answered the FES-I. Intervention comprised a 12-week proprioceptive and strength exercise program, with three 3 sessions/week (45 min).

Sixteen participants (13 females; 68.0 ± 4.6 years) completed the three assessment points and intervention. Gait speed, cadence, and the distance covered during the 6MWT improved after the exercise program, while step time, TUG time, and fear of falling presented a reduction after the exercise program (p < 0.05). Knee and ankle kinematics also presented changes (p < 0.05).

The structured and supervised 12-week exercise program was associated with improvements in functional capacity metrics and gait biomechanical parameters related to falls, while also reducing fear of falling among older adults.

EudraCT No. 2021-004912-25.