The Effect of Ten Weeks of Dual-Task Training on Functional Balance and Gait Speed Under Dual-Task Conditions in Bipolar Patients

Abstract

Background: In mood disorders, disturbance in balance control and walking is a main motor symptom. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the impact of ten weeks of dual-task training on balance and gait speed under dual-task conditions in bipolar patients. Methods: Thirty male patients (age mean 43.13 ± 8.91) with bipolar disorder living in Urmia Psychiatric Center were assigned to the control group and the dual task training group. Dual-task training with moderate intensity, including 20 sessions, 2/week, per 75 min. To detect the changes in the balance and the gait speed, a timed up and go Test (TUG) under dual task conditions and a 10-m walking course under dual task conditions were administered before and after the exercise protocol. It was analyzed using analysis of covariance test. Results: The findings showed that the two groups had significant differences in TUG under motor dual task conditions, gait speed under motor dual task conditions, and gait speed under cognitive dual task conditions (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Considering the effectiveness of cognitive dual-task training in improving gait speed and functional balance, dual-task training may be a potentially important supplement to conventional treatment in people identified as being at high risk of falling.