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01-08-2019 | Tremor | Systematic Review

Can Resistance Training Improve Upper Limb Postural Tremor, Force Steadiness and Dexterity in Older Adults? A Systematic Review

Authors: Justin W. L. Keogh, Sinead O’Reilly, Ethan O’Brien, Steven Morrison, Justin J. Kavanagh

Published in: Sports Medicine | Issue 8/2019

Abstract

Background

The ageing process and several health conditions may increase tremor and reduce force steadiness and dexterity, which can severely impact on function and quality of life. Resistance training can evoke a range of neuromuscular adaptions that may significantly reduce tremor and/or increase force steadiness and/or dexterity in older adults, irrespective of their health condition.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature to determine if a minimum of 4 weeks’ resistance training can reduce postural tremor and improve force steadiness and/or dexterity in older adults, defined as aged 65 years and over.

Methods

An electronic search using Ovid, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus and EMBASE was performed. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.

Results

Fourteen studies met the eligibility criteria, including six randomised controlled trials and two quasi-randomised controlled trials. All eight studies that recruited healthy older adults reported significant reductions in postural tremor and/or improvements in force steadiness and dexterity. Five out of seven studies that examined older adults with a particular health condition reported some improvements in force steadiness and/or dexterity. Specifically, significant benefits were observed for older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and essential tremor; however, small or no changes were observed for individuals with osteoarthritis or stroke.

Conclusions

Resistance training is a non-pharmacological treatment that can reduce tremor and improve force steadiness and dexterity in a variety of older adult populations. Future research should employ randomised controlled trials with larger sample sizes, better describe training programme methods, and align exercise prescription to current recommendations for older adults.

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Title: Can Resistance Training Improve Upper Limb Postural Tremor, Force Steadiness and Dexterity in Older Adults? A Systematic Review
Authors: Justin W. L. Keogh
Sinead O’Reilly
Ethan O’Brien
Steven Morrison
Justin J. Kavanagh
Publication date: 01-08-2019
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keyword: Tremor
Published in: Sports Medicine / Issue 8/2019
Print ISSN: 0112-1642
Electronic ISSN: 1179-2035
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-019-01141-6

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Can Resistance Training Improve Upper Limb Postural Tremor, Force Steadiness and Dexterity in Older Adults? A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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