The effect of proprioceptive exercises on balance sedentary students

The increasing prevalence of sedentism in South African is a cause for concern, as it has been linked to the development of many health conditions and balance disturbances. This study aimed to assess the effects of a nine session progressive proprioceptive exercise program on balance in sedentary students. This was a single-blinded, randomized control trial. Seventy-four first and second year Physiotherapy students were willing to participate, of whom 45 students were included. After the initial physical activity test students were randomly allocated into the control (n=19) and intervention (h=26) group. Each participant's balance was assessed pre and post-intervention using the Romberg's test on the Alfa Stabilometric Platform. The intervention group (h=26) participated in a nine session exercise program. The control group (n=19) received a lecture and pamphlet. Seventy-eight percent of the participants were sedentary. The intervention group's pre and post-intervention scores showed a significant difference in Romberg's eyes open (p=0.042) and Romberg's eyes closed (p=0.046) tests. There was also a significant difference between the control and intervention group post-intervention scores; Romberg's eyes open (p=0.025), Romberg's eyes closed (p=0.036). This study indicated that a nine session progressive proprioceptive exercise program is effective in improving balance in sedentary students. KEYWORDS: SEDENTARY BEHAVIOUR, PROPRIOCEPTIVE EXERCISES, STUDENTS, BALANCE, PHYSIOTHERAPY