Effect of Lower Extremity Stretching Exercises on Balance in Geriatric Population

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to find "Effect of lower extremity stretching exercises on balance in the geriatric population. METHOD 60 subjects (30 male and 30 female) participated in the study. The subjects underwent 10 weeks of lower limb stretching exercise program. Pre and post 10 weeks stretching exercise program, the subjects were assessed for balance, using single limb stance time in seconds and berg balance score. These outcome measures were analyzed. RESULTS Pre and post lower extremity stretching on balance was analyzed using paired t test. Of 60 subjects 50 subjects completed the stretching exercise program. Paired sample t test analysis showed a significant improvement in single limb stance time (eyes open and eyes closed) (p<0.001) and berg balance score (p<0.001). CONCLUSION Lower extremity stretching exercises enhances balance in the geriatric population and thereby reduction in the number of falls.