A prática de oito semanas do método pilates modifica o uso das estratégias posturais em idosos

Abstract

Decreased balance and gait changes in the elderly are factors that reduce their quality of life, leading to a higher risk of falls, and therefore, preventive strategies in this area are relevant. To analyze the impact of Pilates practice on balance and postural strategies in the elderly. Methods: This is an intervention study, which included 14 elderly, whose balance was assessed by Computerized Dynamic Posturography, including sensory organization tests (divided into six conditions), and postural strategies were analyzed. The elderly practiced Pilates exercises over 8 weeks, twice a week, for approximately 50 to 60 minutes. Results: There was an increase in the use of postural ankle strategies in the conditions: II (p = 0.04) and VI (p = 0.01), post intervention. The practice of the Pilates method contributed to the improvement of the use of postural strategies in the elderly and, consequently, can reduce the risk of falling in them. This sample showed important risk factors for the musculoskeletal lesions development, so the insertion of a sports injury prevention for these subjects became fundamental.