Balance Training for Fall Prevention
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a new exercise program, called slip recovery training, can help workers regain balance after slipping. The trial includes two groups: one will engage in slip recovery training, while the other will perform a different balance exercise called alternative balance training. Researchers seek to assess whether slip recovery training can be implemented at work and effectively prevent falls. Potential participants include workers from Virginia Tech's Dining Services, Facilities, Housekeeping, and construction, as well as Veolia field workers in water distribution and construction, who are willing to complete the training and track falls for 12 weeks. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance workplace safety and prevent falls.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. Since the trial involves balance training exercises and not medication, it's likely you can continue your current medications, but you should confirm with the trial organizers.
What prior data suggests that this balance training is safe for workers?
Research has shown that both slip recovery training and other balance exercises are generally safe for participants. These exercises improve balance and reduce the risk of falls, indicating they are well-tolerated.
One study found that even a single session of slip recovery training enhanced balance and decreased the chance of slipping. Another study demonstrated that this training helps maintain balance after slips are intentionally caused in a lab setting.
Alternative balance training also appears safe. Several studies have shown it effectively reduces falls by improving strength and balance. This type of training fits easily into daily routines, making it both safe and practical.
Overall, both types of training are safe and manageable for participants. There are no significant reports of negative effects from these exercises.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these balance training techniques because they offer innovative ways to prevent falls, especially in older adults. Slip Recovery Training is unique as it focuses on reactive and volitional stepping movements that simulate the real-life actions needed to regain balance after a slip, which is different from traditional exercises that don't typically mimic these sudden movements. Alternative Balance Training offers varied sensory conditions to challenge and improve standing balance and tandem walking, which could enhance stability in diverse environments. These methods provide practical, real-world approaches to balance training, which could be more effective than standard exercises that often focus only on general strength or mobility.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for fall prevention?
This trial will compare two types of balance training: slip recovery training and alternative balance training. Research has shown that slip recovery training, which participants in one arm of this trial will receive, can greatly improve balance, particularly in regaining balance after slipping, thus reducing the risk of falls. One study found that even a single session of this specific training improved the ability to react and recover balance, crucial for preventing falls caused by slips. Another source emphasizes that slip recovery training significantly lowers the chances of falling by enhancing the body's response to slips.
Participants in another arm of this trial will receive alternative balance training. Studies indicate that this type of exercise helps reduce falls that cause injuries and improve both static and dynamic balance. These exercises also strengthen the lower body and enhance mobility, leading to fewer falls. Overall, both types of training have demonstrated benefits in improving balance and reducing fall risks, but slip recovery training specifically focuses on recovering from slips.12467Who Is on the Research Team?
Michael L Madigan, PhD
Principal Investigator
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Virginia Tech workers in Dining Services, Facilities and Housekeeping, construction, and Veolia field workers in water distribution and main construction aged between 18-65. They must be willing to complete training sessions, lab testing, and daily falls tracking for 12 weeks. Those over 250 pounds or not cleared by the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training
Participants undergo slip recovery training or alternative balance training once weekly for 3 to 6 weeks
Laboratory Testing
Participants complete a laboratory session of testing with a lab-induced slip to validate field assessments
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for slips and falls through daily text messages and participate in focus group discussions
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Alternative Balance Training
- Slip Recovery Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Lead Sponsor