Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy - An International Journal
  • Year: 2014
  • Volume: 8
  • Issue: 4

Effect of Joint Approximation through Weights around Waist on Postural Sway and Balance in Elderly

1Department of Anatomy, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University

2Assistant Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, Dolphin (PG) Institute Of Bio-Medical and Natural Sciences, Dehradun, Uttarakhand

3Kings Physiotherapy Clinic, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

*Corresponding author: Neetu Rani Dhiman, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India, Ph.: +91 8765759806, Email: gyanpurineetu@gmail.com

Online published on 20 November, 2014.

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The use of external body weights has been employed to improve balance in patients. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of joint approximation through weights around waist on postural sway and balance in elderly.

Method: Thirty elderly subjects with Berg Balance Scale (BBS) Score<45 between the ages of 65 to 95 years were recruited from the community in and around Dehradun. The BBS score and postural sway were assessed three times; without weights, with weights and after removing weights from the pelvic belt. All three readings were compared to see the effect of approximation on reduction of sway and improvement in balance. The amount of weight taken was 10% of body weight of each subject. The immediate after effect of approximation was also determined. The reliability of sway meter used in study was quantified using Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) before starting the study procedure (Antero-Posterior sway, ICC= 0.83).

Results: The results suggested that there was a significant (p=0.000) reduction in Antero-Posterior postural sway (A-P Sway) and significant (p=0.000) improvement in balance with the application of weights. The immediate improvement in balance and reduction in sway was also seen after removing weights. There was no significant improvement in Medio-Lateral sway (M-L Sway).

Conclusion: The present study concluded that joint approximation through weights around the waist is beneficial for reducing postural sway and improving balance in elderly.

Keywords

Approximation, Postural Sway, Balance