@article{ref1,
title="Physical exercise and prevention of falls. Effects of a Pilates training method compared with a general physical activity program: a randomized controlled trial",
journal="Medicine (Baltimore)",
year="2021",
author="Patti, Antonino and Zangla, Daniele and Sahin, Fatma Nese and Cataldi, Stefania and Lavanco, Gioacchino and Palma, Antonio and Fischietti, Francesco",
volume="100",
number="13",
pages="e25289-e25289",
abstract="INTRODUCTION: Falls are the leading cause of injury-related mortality and morbidity in the elderly. Physical activity plays a key role in the prevention of falls and stimulates postural control. The aim of this study was to compare a general physical activity program for the elderly with a Pilates program to evaluate the effects on balance and on reducing the risk of falling. <br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-six subjects were enrolled in this study, but only 41 were included in the study. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: Pilates group (P-G) and a group following a nonspecific program of physical activity (Pa-G). Each subject underwent the hand grip test, Berg balance scale test, and posturographic analysis. <br><br>RESULTS: Spearman correlation coefficient showed correlations between the following parameters: BBS versus hand grip test (r = 0.68); BBS versus ellipse surface area (r = -0.75). There were significant differences between groups after the exercise program: both groups showed an improvement in performance but the P-G recorded significantly better results than the Pa-G. <br><br>DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that physical activity improves both balance and strength. However, our data show that Pilates has a greater effect on these physical abilities than a general physical activity program.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0025-7974",
doi="10.1097/MD.0000000000025289",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000025289"
}