A Systematic Review on Detraining Effects after Balance and Fall Prevention Interventions

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, lockdowns have been implemented to fight off infections in countries around the world. Whilst this measure is without a doubt effective against spreading infection, it might also decrease participation in exercise. For older adults, exercise is particularly important in the prevention of falls, and sudden detraining because of a lockdown or due to other causes might have detrimental consequences. This systematic review study aims to assess what is currently known on detraining effects for balance outcomes. Nine studies were included within this review. Results suggest that detraining effects could already be significant as early as 4 weeks after stopping the intervention. Programs that specifically focus on improving balance were more robust against detraining, with most positive effects still being present after 8 weeks. However, even with a specific focus on balance, studies started to show some signs of detraining. The current study is limited by the low number of included studies in the review, indicating a need to further confirm these results.

Automated summary

Lockdowns implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to detraining effects on balance outcomes, especially for older adults. Programs focusing on improving balance are more resistant to detraining, but some signs of detraining start to show even in these specific programs. More studies are needed to confirm these results due to the limited number of included studies in the review.