Effects of neuromuscular exercise and dance therapy on physical performance and kinesiophobia in GERIATRICS: A randomized controlled study

Background

Neuromuscular exercise is a comprehensive training approach encompassing functional movements, proprioceptive training, and perturbation exercises aimed at enhancing balance, muscle activation, and joint stability. Dance therapy, defined as the intentional and rhythmic movement of the body to music, serves as a physical and mental modality for promoting well-being.

Objective

This study aimed to compare the effects of a physiotherapy-based neuromuscular exercise program and dance therapy on physical performance and kinesiophobia in geriatrics.

Methods

Fifty-two participants were randomly assigned to either a neuromuscular exercise group (NE; n = 25) or a dance therapy group (DT; n = 27). Both interventions lasted 12 weeks. Assessments included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for functional balance, the Tinetti Balance and Gait Assessment (TBG) for balance and gait, the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30SSTS) for lower extremity strength and function, the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) for fear of falling, Manual Muscle Testing for muscle strength, goniometric measurements for range of motion (ROM), and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK).

Results

Functional balance improved significantly only in the DT group. (BBS, p < 0.05). Both groups showed significant within-group improvements in balance (TBG), lower limb function (30SSTS), and proximal muscle strength (MMT) (p < 0.05). Between-group analysis showed significantly higher baseline 30SSTS scores in the NE group (p < 0.05), and no significant differences were observed in fear of falling, ROM, or kinesiophobia.

Conclusion

Neuromuscular exercise and dance therapy are both safe and effective interventions for improving balance, lower extremity function and proximal muscle strength in geriatrics. Their incorporation into rehabilitation programs may support active aging.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06395779.