Falls associated with better functioning?

Of 241 falls in 122 patients seven main fall types were distingushed. One fall type (‘I’m giving it a go’) appeared quite different and was associated with better functioning at time of fall and better outcomes.

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Vibration improves motor status of elderly

Experimental group received a whole-body vibration exercise alone (vibration amplitude: 1–3 mm; frequency: 6–26 Hz; 4–5 bouts × 60 seconds; 3–5 times weekly). A control group, who received usual care and exercises for eight weeks.

The repeated-measures ANOVA showed that there were significant differences in the Timed Up and Go Test, 30-second chair stand test, bilateral knees extensor strength, activities-specific balance confidence score and general health status between the two groups (P < 0.05). No side-effects were observed during the training. Whole-body vibration exercise -

• reduced the time of the Timed Up and Go Test (40.47 ± 15.94 s to 21.34 ± 4.42 s)
• improved the bilateral knees extensor strength (6.96 ± 1.70 kg to 11.26 ± 2.08 kg)
• the posture stability improved (surface area ellipse: 404.58 ± 177.05 to 255.95 ± 107.28) 
• General Health Status improved (Short-form Health Survey score: 24.51 ± 10.69 and 49.63 ± 9.85 to 45.03 ± 11.15 and 65.23 ± 9.39, respectively)

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