Feldenkrais method (Photo: Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, the developer) is an educational system designed to improve body movement and function. Its goal is to re-educate the nervous system and improve motor ability.

Researchers at the University of South Carolina, in Columbia report their experience in older adults.

First, the details.

• 47 elderly adults were randomly assigned to a treatment group for 5 weeks.
  • Feldenkrais: 60 minutes 3 times per week
  • Wait list control
• Changes in balance (tandem stance: 1 foot in front of the other), mobility (timed up and go), gait characteristics (GAITRite Walkway System), balance confidence (Balance Confidence Scale; ABC), and fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale) were measured.

And, the results.

• Balance and mobility increased significantly with Feldenkrais vs control.
• Fear of falling decreased significantly with Feldenkrais vs control.
• No other significant changes were observed, although the Feldenkrais group showed improved balance confidence and mobility while concurrently performing a cognitive task.

The bottom line?

The authors concluded, “Feldenkrais exercises… offer an alternative method to help offset age-related declines in mobility and reduce the risk of falling among community-dwelling older adults.”

They also want further research to identify any effect of Feldenkrais exercises on cognitive processes.

6/7/10 20:39 JR