The Effects of 12 Sessions of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization and Fall-Proof Exercises on Balance and Motor Performance in Elderly Women with a History of Falls
Keywords:
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization, Fall-Proof, Balance, Motor Performance, FallsAbstract
The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two training approaches—Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and the Fall-Proof program—on balance and motor performance in elderly women with a history of falls. In this quasi-experimental study, 35 elderly women aged 60 to 70 years with a history of falling were randomly assigned to one of two training groups: DNS (n = 17) or Fall-Proof (n = 18). The interventions were conducted over four weeks, consisting of 12 training sessions. Balance was assessed using the Mini-BESTest, while motor performance was evaluated through the 30-Second Chair Stand Test (CST) and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA, and partial eta squared was used to determine effect sizes. The results showed that both training programs significantly improved balance and motor performance among participants (p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p > 0.05). The effect sizes were 0.71 for balance and 0.62 for motor performance, indicating clinically meaningful improvements. These findings suggest that both DNS and Fall-Proof exercises are effective interventions for enhancing balance and motor function in older women with a history of falling. Implementing such programs may help reduce the risk of falls and improve quality of life in this population.
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