EFFECTIVENESS OF STRETCHING AND STRENGTHENING EXERCISES ON STOOPED POSTURE IN GERIATRIC PATIENTS.

Abstract

Purpose of the study- This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a combined stretching and strengthening exercise program in addressing hyperkyphotic posture among geriatric patients. Hyperkyphosis, prevalent in older adults, adversely affects health and mobility. The purpose is to determine whether a multifaceted exercise approach yields superior outcomes compared to stretching alone.

Methods-The study was conducted in Karad, Maharashtra. It included 30 participants aged above 60 with hyperkyphosis and a kyphotic index greater than 13. Participants were randomly assigned to Group A (stretching only) or Group B (stretching and strengthening). A 6-week exercise protocol was implemented, and outcomes were measured using kyphotic index, thoracolumbar flexion range of motion, and the tragus-to-wall test.

Results- Kyphotic Index:Group B, receiving both stretching and strengthening exercises, showed a significantly greater reduction in kyphotic index compared to Group A (p < 0.0001). This implies that the combined approach is more effective in treating hyperkyphosis.Thoracolumbar Flexion Range of Motion:Both groups exhibited extremely significant improvements (p < 0.0001) in thoracolumbar flexion range of motion. However, Group B displayed a more substantial increase, indicating that incorporating strengthening exercises contributed to enhanced flexibility.Tragus to Wall Test:Group B demonstrated a more pronounced reduction in the tragus-to-wall distance compared to Group A (p < 0.0001), suggesting that the combined stretching and strengthening approach was more effective in improving posture.

Conclusion: The study concludes that a combined stretching and strengthening exercise program is superior in addressing hyperkyphotic posture in geriatric patients compared to stretching alone. This comprehensive approach leads to a significantly greater reduction in kyphotic index, improved flexibility, and more pronounced posture improvement. The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating both elements into rehabilitation protocols for optimal outcomes in managing hyperkyphosis in the elderly.