Article

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of an exercise program aiming to improve
balance and muscular strength, for postural control and muscular strength of
women with osteoporosis. DESIGN: Sample consisted
of 33 women with osteoporosis,
randomized into one of two groups: intervention group, in which exercises for
balance and improvement of muscular strength of the inferior members were
performed for 8 wks (n = 17, age 72.8 +/- 3.6 yrs); control group, which was
women not practicing exercises (n = 16, age 74.4 +/- 3.7 yrs). At baseline and
after 8 wks of treatment, postural control was assessed using a force plate
(Balance Master, Neurocom), and muscular strength during ankle dorsiflexion, knee
extension, and flexion was assessed by dynamometry. RESULTS: Adherence to the
program was 82%. When compared with the control group, individuals in the
intervention group significantly improved the center of pressure velocity (P =
0.02) in the modified clinical test of sensory interaction for balance test,
center of pressure velocity (P < 0.01), and directional control
(P < 0.01) in
limits of stability test, isometric force during ankle dorsiflexion
(P = 0.01),
knee extension (P < 0.01), and knee flexion (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Balance and
strength exercises are effective in improving postural control and lower-limb
strength in elderly women with osteoporosis.

Langue : ANGLAIS