Square-stepping versus wobble-board exercises to improve balance and thinking in older adults
Comparison of Square Stepping Exercise and Wobble Board Exercise on Cognition, Balance and Fall Risk in Elderly Population
This trial will test whether square-stepping or wobble-board exercises work better to improve balance, thinking, and lower fall risk for people aged 60 and older.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07150364 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Older adults who meet cognitive and balance thresholds will be assigned to either a square-stepping exercise program or a wobble-board exercise program and will complete the same pre- and post-intervention assessments. Cognitive function, balance performance, mobility, and confidence around falling will be measured using the MMSE, Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go, and Fall Efficacy Scale. The interventions are active exercise programs delivered in person at the study site and compared for their effects on these outcomes. Results will indicate which approach produces larger functional gains in this selected elderly population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people aged 60 or older who can walk independently, have MMSE scores above 24, Berg Balance Scale scores above 41, and stable vital signs.
Not a fit: People with severe neurological or musculoskeletal disorders affecting gait or balance, recent fractures, uncontrolled cardiovascular problems, or significant cognitive impairment (MMSE ≤24) are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the better-performing exercise could improve balance and thinking and reduce fall risk, helping older adults stay more independent.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research showed square-stepping exercises improved balance and reduced fear of falling more than traditional balance exercises, but direct comparisons with wobble-board training are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Elderly individuals age 60 years and above of both genders according to the guidelines of World Health Organization (WHO). * Participants whose Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score will be \>24/30 ensuring sufficient cognitive ability to follow instructions and participate in exercise. * Participants whose Berg Balance Scale scores of more than 41/56 ensuring that the participants have moderate level of balance ability. * Vital signs within normal range for elderly population. * Ability to walk independently with or without an assistive device (e.g., canes). Exclusion Criteria: * Participants who have severe musculoskeletal or neurological disorders affecting gait or balance (e.g., Parkinson's disease, and stroke) because of the complex impacts of these conditions on general cognitive and physical functions. * Participants who undergoes recent fractures or injuries affecting participation in physical activity. * Participants who have uncontrolled cardiovascular or metabolic conditions (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, and diabetes mellitus) that could significantly interfere with exercise.
Where this trial is running
Lahore, Punjab Province
- Khursheed Old Home — Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Fatima Tariq — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, Phd
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
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.