Article

Falls are associated with morbidity, loss of independence, and
mortality. While land-based group exercise and Tai Chi programs reduce the risk
of falls, aquatic therapy may allow patients to complete balance exercises with
less pain and fear of falling; however, limited data exist.
The objective of the study was to pilot the implementation of an aquatic group based
on Ai Chi principles (Aquabalance) and to evaluate the safety, intervention
acceptability, and intervention effect sizes. DESIGN: Pilot observational cohort
study. METHODS: Forty-two outpatients underwent a single 45-minute weekly group
aquatic Ai Chi-based session for eight weeks (Aquabalance). Safety was monitored
using organizational reporting systems. Patient attendance, satisfaction, and
self-reported falls were also recorded. Balance measures included the Timed Up
and Go (TUG) test, the Four Square Step Test (FSST), and the unilateral Step
Tests. RESULTS: Forty-two patients completed the program. It was feasible to
deliver Aquabalance, as evidenced by the median (IQR) attendance rate of 8.0
(7.8, 8.0) out of 8. No adverse events occurred and participants reported high
satisfaction levels. Improvements were noted on the TUG, 10-meter walk test, the
Functional Reach Test, the FSST, and the unilateral step tests (p < 0.05). The
proportion of patients defined as high falls risk reduced from 38% to 21%. The
study was limited by its small sample size, single-center nature, and the absence
of a control group. CONCLUSIONS: Aquabalance was safe, well-attended, and
acceptable to participants. A randomized controlled assessor-blinded trial is
required.

Langue : ANGLAIS