MedPath

The Effect of Feldenkrais Lessons on Walking and Balance

Phase 1
Conditions
Accidental Falls
Exercise
Registration Number
NCT00222287
Lead Sponsor
University of Melbourne
Brief Summary

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a series of Feldenkrais movement lessons on mobility and balance, particularly for older adults. The investigators hypothesise that mobility and balance will improve following the classes.

Detailed Description

The Feldenkrais Method is an educational process which involves exploration of novel movement sequences that lead to expansion of the movement repertoire. This Method has been used with the aim of improving balance and mobility in several studies, and has been compared to the benefits of Tai Chi for improving balance in older adults. The current study investigates the effects of a 10 week series of Feldenkrais movement classes on gait parameters as measured on an instrumented gait mat, a balance test of stepping and turning (the Four Square Step Test) and a questionnaire about balance confidence (the Activites Specific Balance Confidence scale.

Recruitment & Eligibility

Status
UNKNOWN
Sex
All
Target Recruitment
60
Inclusion Criteria
  • community dwelling older adults (aged over 65)
  • able to independently ambulate indoors and outdoors
Exclusion Criteria
  • currently undergoing physiotherapy treatment
  • unable to comprehend written english
  • unable to give informed consent
  • walking with a walking frame indoors

Study & Design

Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Study Design
PARALLEL
Primary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Balance Confidence (as measured by ABC scale)
Tempo-spatial parameters of gait
Time to complete Four Square Step Test
Secondary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

University of Melbourne

🇦🇺

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

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