Effect of hemibridge with ball and balloon exercise on balance, gait speed, fear of fall, and quality of life in elderly – A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Context: Hemibridge with ball and balloon exercise causes co-contraction of the core, pelvic floor muscles, and lower limb muscles. However, limited data exist about the efficacy of these exercises in elderly individuals. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of hemibridge with ball and balloon exercise on balance, gait speed, fear of falls, and quality of life in elderly individuals. Settings and Design: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary care center and old age homes. Subjects and Methods: Thirty-six (n = 36) elderly individuals were randomly allocated to the control and experimental groups. The control group received conventional balance training, while the experimental group received hemibridge with ball and balloon exercises with conventional balance training exercises. The outcome measures were the Timed-Up and Go test (TUG), 4-m gait speed (4MGS) test, Short Falls-Efficacy Scale (SFES), and RAND 36-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-36). Both groups received treatment for 3 weeks with three sessions a week. Statistical Analysis: The test used for between-group analysis was the Mann–Whitney U-test and for within-group analysis was the Wilcoxon matched-pair test. Results: The between-group results for TUG, 4MGS test, and SFES for the experimental group showed a statistical significance compared to the control group. However, the results of the RAND SF-36 health survey for the experimental group were not statistically significant compared to the control group. Conclusion: Hemibridge with ball and balloon exercise with conventional balance exercises showed beneficial effects on balance, gait speed, fear of falls, and quality of life for the elderly.