The effects of dual-task balance training on gait in older women with osteoporosis: a randomized controlled trial

Publication date: Available online 4 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): David Conradsson, Alexandra Halvarsson

Abstract

Background

Although there is a growing body of literature showing promising effects of balance training on gait in older adults, little is known about the effects of dual-task training on varying domains of spatial and temporal gait parameters.

Research question

Does the short-term effects of dual-task balance training differ between single and dual-task gait in older women with osteoporosis with regards to different gait domains (pace, rhythm, variability, asymmetry and postural control)?

Methods

Elderly individuals with osteoporosis who experienced fear of falling and/or ≥1 fall the last 12 months were recruited. Ninety-five participants were randomized to 12 weeks of balance training or to a control group. The participants in the training group (n = 65) received 12 weeks (3 times/week) of balance and gait exercises including dual-tasks, and the control group (n = 30) received care as usual. Single- and dual-task gait were assessed before and after the intervention with an electronic walkway system and analyzed using non-parametric statistics and effect sizes.

Results

68 participants completed the study. The training group walked faster for single- and dual-task gait following training (P ≤ .044) by increasing their cadence (P ≤ .012) and reducing step and swing time (P ≤ .045) compared with the control group. Significant between-group differences in favor of the training group were found for gait variability during dual-task gait (P ≤ .041). The improvement in speed were greater for dual- than single-task gait (0.10 vs. 0.05 m/s) and the effect sizes revealed small to medium effects for dual-task gait, and either non-existent or small for single-task gait.

Significance

Greater training effects found on a variety of domains of dual-task gait compared to single-task gait support the role of cognitively demanding exercises for the maintenance of safe ambulation in older women with osteoporosis.

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