Neurophysiological changes from balance training in older adults
Short-term Neurophysiological Changes After a Perturbation-based Training in Community-dwelling Older Adults: A Pilot Study
This study is testing if a special balance training program can help older adults improve their stability and brain function compared to regular treadmill walking.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 88 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06573658 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of perturbation-based training (PBT) on postural balance and neurophysiological changes in older adults. A total of 88 participants aged 60 and above will be randomly assigned to either the PBT group or an active control group. Both groups will engage in treadmill walking, but only the PBT group will experience induced perturbations during their sessions. The study aims to assess changes in postural stability and brain connectivity through behavioral assessments and MRI scans before and after the training, with follow-up evaluations for fall incidents over the next year.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are community-dwelling, right-handed individuals aged 60 years or older who can walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients with significant musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, or neurological disorders, or those with metal implants, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance postural stability in older adults, potentially reducing the risk of falls.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that perturbation-based training can improve postural stability, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged ≥ 60 years old * Community-dwelling * Right-handed * Able to communicate effectively in Cantonese or Mandarin * Able to walk independently on level ground for ≥ 30 minutes * Abbreviated Mental Test (Hong Kong version) score ≥ 6 Exclusion Criteria: * Metal implants (e.g. pacemaker, artificial cochlea) * Uncorrected vision or hearing impairment * Osteoporosis * Hip or knee replacement within the last year * Musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, mental, or neurological disorders (such as Parkinson's disease) which can affect MRI examination, balance control, or exercise participation.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sau Lan Tsang, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Sau Lan Tsang, PhD
- Email: charlotte-sl.tsang@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: 852 3400 8965
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.