Article

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of the Nijmegen Falls Prevention Program
(NFPP) for persons with osteoporosis and a fall history in a randomized
controlled trial. Persons with osteoporosis are at risk for fall-related
fractures because of decreased bone strength. A decrease in the number of falls
therefore is expected to be particularly beneficial for these persons. DESIGN:
Randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Persons with
osteoporosis and a fall history (N=96; mean +/- SD age, 71.0+/-4.7y; 90 women).
INTERVENTION: After baseline assessment, participants were randomly assigned to
the exercise (n=50; participated in the NFPP for persons with osteoporosis
[5.5wk]) or control group (n=46; usual care). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary
outcome measure was fall rate, measured by using monthly fall calendars for 1
year. Secondary outcomes were balance confidence (Activity-specific Balance
Confidence Scale), quality of life (QOL; Quality of Life Questionnaire of the
European Foundation for Osteoporosis), and activity level (LASA Physical Activity
Questionnaire, pedometer), assessed posttreatment subsequent to the program and
after 1 year of follow-up. RESULTS: The fall rate in the exercise group was 39%
lower than for the control group (.72 vs 1.18 falls/person-year; risk ratio, .61;
95% confidence interval, .40-.94). Balance confidence in the exercise group
increased by 13.9% (P=.001). No group differences were observed in QOL and
activity levels. CONCLUSION: The NFPP for persons with osteoporosis was effective
in decreasing the number of falls and improving balance confidence. Therefore, it
is a valuable new tool to improve mobility and independence of persons with osteoporosis.
CI - Copyright (c) 2010 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS