Reducing the Risk of Falls Through Proprioceptive Dynamic Posture Training in Osteoporotic Women with Kyphotic Posturing

Sinaki M, Lynn SG: Reducing the risk of falls through proprioceptive dynamic posture training in osteoporotic women with kyphotic posturing: A randomized pilot study. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2002;81:241–246. Objective To assess the effect of a proprioceptive dynamic posture training program on balance in osteoporotic women with kyphotic posture. Design Subjects were randomly assigned to either a proprioceptive dynamic posture training program or exercise only group. Anthropometric measurements, muscle strength, level of physical activity, computerized dynamic posturography, and spine radiography were performed at baseline and 1 mo. Results At the 1-mo follow-up, three groups were formed on the basis of the baseline computerized dynamic posturography results. In general, groups 1 and 2 had no significant change at 1 mo, whereas group 3 improved balance significantly at 1 mo. Conclusion The subjects who had abnormal balance and used the proprioceptive dynamic posture training program had the most significant improvement in balance. Improved balance could reduce the risk of falls.