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Journal of Gerontology:MEDICAL SCIENCES Functional Reach Improvement in Normal Older Ronald J. Dennis [Abstract] Background. Functional Reach (FR) is a clinical measure of balance. The Alexander Technique (AT) is a non-exercise approach to the improvement of body mechanics. This study investigated a possible relationship between FR performance and AT instruction. Methods. Three groups, comprised of women over 65 with the exception of one male control, were studied: (1) a pilot group; and (2) and (3) experimental and control groups. Groups 1 and 2 were given eight one-hour, bi-weekly sessions of AT instruction with pre and post tests in FR, while Group 3 was given only pre and post tests in FR. Results. Groups 1 and 2 both showed significant improvement in FR performance. Group 2 was retested one month after posttest and showed a slight decrease in FR performance. For Groups 1 and 2, a questionnaire allowing qualitative responses on a four-item scale showed an overall positive response to the AT instruction. Conclusions. AT instruction may be effective in improving balance and thereby reducing the incidence of falls in normal older women. Reprints available from RD @ $2.00 postpaid (US) or $3.50 (foreign airmail). |