Effects of the ‘ReacStep’ training program on balance recovery and fall risk factors in older people: an assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial

Vollständiger Abstract

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Abstract Background Reactive balance training (RBT) using repeated perturbations may reduce falls; however, training methods are not easily replicated or translatable to clinical settings. This study aimed to examine the effects of a novel RBT program on balance recovery from laboratory-induced trips and slips and fall risk factors in older people using simple and low-cost equipment. Methods We conducted a randomised controlled trial involving 88 older people. An intervention group (n = 43) received the ReacStep program, which involved tether-release reactive stepping and intentional slips once a week for 6 weeks. Both the intervention and control (n = 45) groups received home-based strength training for 8 weeks. Blinded staff assessed reactive balance (laboratory-induced falls), physical functions at baseline (week 1) and post intervention (week 8). Weekly short-message service (SMS) surveys ascertained falls in daily life over 12 months. Results Both groups were comparable in demographics, with a mean age of 72 years (SD = 5.6). Adherence to ReacStep sessions was high (90%). There were no significant differences between groups in laboratory-assessed reactive balance falls at post-test or daily-life falls over 1 year (P = .19). However, at post-test, the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in maximum step length and choice stepping reaction time compared to controls (P