Effects of a dual-task training on dynamic and static balance control of pre-frail elderly: a pilot study

Abstract

Introduction: This quasi-experimental study is justified by the need to determine the effects of an interventionstrategy aimed at improving the static and dynamic balance in pre-frail elderly women. We hypothesizedthat dual-task training on a treadmill, compared to simple training on a treadmill,may promotestatistical difference in postural control of this group. Objectives: This study aimed to verify the measuresof postural control in a group of pre-frail elderly after a physical therapy intervention program based ondual-task treadmill training. Materials and methods: We selected six female pre-frail elderly subjectsliving in the community. The research was conducted twice a week for 45 minutes, for four weeks. Thesimple task training consisted only in the use of a treadmill and the dual-task training consisted on theuse of a treadmill associated with visual stimuli. Only the intervention group was submitted to the dualtasktraining. Results: Groups showed improvements in the variables of balance in different tasks, especiallyon static balance. Both groups showed the most notable changes in the variables related to gait. TheBBS scores and the baropodometric variables showed that the experimental group could keep all values similar or better even one month after completion of training, unlike the control group. Conclusion: Thedual-task performance had no additional value in relation to the improvement of balance in general, butwe observed that the effectiveness of visual stimulation seems to occur in the maintenance of short-termbalance variables.