Evaluation of the effect of a 2-month balance exercise program on balance in postmenopausal osteoporosis patients

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a regular home exercise program, administered over eight weeks, on balance in postmenopausal osteoporosis patients. Materials and Methods: The study was designed as a prospective, randomized and controlled study. 62 patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis and/or osteoporotic vertebral fractures, according to the WHO criteria, were included. Participants were separated into two groups: exercise (n = 31) and control (n = 31) groups. In the exercise group a specialized exercise program focused on increasing muscle strength and balance, the OTAGO Home Exercise Program (OEP), was performed for a duration of 2 months. Detailed clinical histories and demographic information were documented. Handgrip strength was determined using a grip test. The risk of osteoporotic fractures was assessed using FRAX scores (major osteoporotic fracture risk and hip fracture risk) and standard DXA tests. Laboratory parameters and serum 25(OH)D levels were assessed. Balance assessments were performed clinically by utilizing the Tandem Stance (TS) and Tandem Walk (TW) tests, as well as the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Tetrax, a Computerized Static Posturography instrument, was used to analyze the Stability Index (SI), Fall Index (FI), and Fourier frequencies. Balance tests were evaluated after 2 months. Results: The exercise group performed significantly better in the TS and TW Tests (p=0.024) (p=0.028); there was also a significant difference in handgrip strength (p=0.038). The exercise group had a 0.97±1.22 unit rise in BBS values and a 1.20±2.02 unit drop in TUGT measurements when compared to the control group. In Tetrax assessments, the exercise group showed a significant decrease of 9.74±23.45 units in FI measures (p=0.028). A weak negative statistical association was discovered between the change in FI and the change in BBS within the exercise group (r=-0.375; p=0.038). There was no statistically significant link detected between the change in FRAX-hip fracture risk and FRAX-major osteoporotic fracture risk with the change in TUGT, BBS, or FI (p>0,05). Conclusion: The results and findings of the study indicate that the OEP, performed for 2 months, has a significant, positive effect on physical performance and balance. In patients diagnosed with postmenopausal osteoporosis, an exercise program customized to include balance and strength training, such as the OEP, has been found effective in improving physical performance and balance. Keywords: balance, computerized static posturography, OTAGO home exercise program, postmenopausal osteoporosis