Backward step to safety: new study tests reverse walking to stop senior falls

NCT ID NCT07650097

First seen Jun 21, 2026 · Last updated Jun 21, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether adding backward walking exercises to standard rehabilitation can reduce falls in people over 75 who are at high risk of falling. About 300 participants in France will either receive usual care or replace part of their rehab with supervised backward walking on a treadmill. Researchers will track falls, balance, and mobility for one year to see if this simple change makes a difference.

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This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Hôpital Charles-Foix

    Ivry-sur-Seine, 94205, France

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

walking backwards exercise

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to prevent falls in older adults, helping them stay independent longer.

What could go wrong

This is a relatively small, early-stage trial. The benefit may be small or not apply to everyone, and backward walking carries a risk of falling during the exercise itself.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.