Senile osteoporosis - two models of physiotherapy

Materials and methods Thirty four females with senile osteoporosis, aged 65-84 years, were examined. All patients were divided into two randomized groups. Both groups participated in the same physiotherapy program (antigravity, strengthening, balance, stretching, coordination, circulatory, respiratory, relaxation exercises). The only difference between the two groups was the type of walking training performed on a treadmill; group "F" was instructed to walk forward, and group "B" was instructed to walk backward. Two parameters assessed: the strength of the knee extensor muscles (by tensometry) and correction of thoracic kyphosis (by plurimeter-V).