Balance-Based Recreational Therapy Program: Examining the Association Between Postural Stability and Falls Efficacy in People with Parkinson’s Disease

Authors

  • Stephan Manuel Acuna Oklahoma State University
  • Tim Passmore Oklahoma State University
  • Reed Holt Oklahoma State University
  • Jungyu Lee Oklahoma State University
  • Brandt Brickell Radford University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2025-V59-I4-12959

Keywords:

Balance Training, fall efficacy, Postural Stability, postural sway, recreational therapy, community based intervention

Abstract

Falls are a major cause of injury, loss of independence, and fear among individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD).  Community-based Recreational therapy (CBRT) balance programs aim to mitigate fall risk by improving balance and enhancing confidence in balance-related activities alongside peers. This study examines the relationship between postural sway, postural stability, and perceived balance confidence in people with PD. For six months, three older adults with PD (72±12) engaged in a structured balance training program emphasizing strength, stability, and proprioception. Monthly assessments of postural sway, stability, and self-reported perceived balance confidence scores were analyzed for statistical and clinical relevance. Findings indicate a moderate correlation between improved balance measures and higher perceived balance confidence scores, suggesting that better balance performance leads to increased confidence in functional movement. These results highlight the significance of structured balance training in fall prevention strategies and underscore the role of recreational therapy in promoting balance and confidence. The practical implications and potential directions for future research are examined.

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Published

2025-10-01

Issue

Vol. 59 No. 4 (2025)

Section

ATRA Annual

License

Sagamore Publishing LLC (hereinafter the “Copyright Owner”)

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