Mental Retardasyonlu Bireylerde Tai Chi Egzersiz Programı ve Klasik Denge Egzersizlerinin Denge Parametreleri ve Denge ile Ilgili Aktiviteler Üzerine Etkileri
Özet
The aim of this study was to assess and to compare the efficacy of Tai Chi based balance program versus classical balance training program in subjects with mental retardation. The primary hypothesis was that Tai Chi based program would be more effective than classical balance training program. Twenty-four subjects were divided into two groups Tai Chi (n=12) and Classical Balance (n=12) based on their IQ scores. The primary outcome measurements were Berg Balance Scale, Single Leg Stance Test, Functional Reach Test, Timed Up And Go Test, Timed Ten Meter Walk Test, step and stride lenght, step width, foot angle by means of footprint method and cadance measurements. The subjects were trained twice a week for 12 weeks. The measurements were performed before the training, at the end of the training and 4 weeks after the end of the training. The results of this study showed that there was no significant difference between groups on Berg Balance Test scores (p>0.05). Single leg stance test scores for right and left side were higher in Tai Chi group at the end of the training and 4 weeks after the end of the training (p<0.05). Functional Reach test scores was higher in Tai Chi group after training and 4 weeks after the end of the training (p<0.05). There was no significant difference on Timed Up and Go Test Scores between two groups before training and 4 weeks after the end of the training (p>0.05). Tai Chi group showed better scores on Timed Up And Go Test after 12 weeks (p<0.05). While there was no group difference on parameters obtained from footprints (p>0.05), intragroup results showed that step width narrowed at the end of the training (p<0.017). The step width scores 4 week after the end of the training were still lower then the scores before training (p<0.017). In intragroup results there was significant increase in cadance in both groups after training. 4 weeks after training, cadance scores decreased in both groups (p<0.017). According to these results, a training program consisting of Tai Chi forms seemed more effective in improving balance in subjects with mental retardation and can be used as an alternative therapy.
