BALANCE TRAINING & FALLS PREVENTION

SUMMARY

1. Improvement in balance has been identified as the strongest predictor of distance walked.

2. Trunk-specific balance training and balance-focused exercise programs have been shown to improve balance post stroke.

3. Whole body and local vibration, thermal stimulation, and interventions involving feedback may not improve balance outcomes.

4. It is unclear whether task-specific balance training programs and virtual reality training improve balance, gait and functional recovery post stroke.

5. Stroke patients are at a higher risk of falling with 25-39% of patients falling while on the stroke rehabilitation unit and 73% falling within 6 months of discharge form hospital.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.