Adjustments in static and dynamic postural control during pregnancy and their relationship with quality of life: A descriptive study

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate static and dynamic postural control during the three trimesters of pregnancy and to check the quality of life in each trimester. MethodsThis is a descriptive study in which posturographic tests were applied in four still standing positions, for three trials, with a combination of different visual conditions and support base configurations. The variables of ground reaction force (GRF) were also analyzed during the gait stance phase through the force platform and the quality of life. The study included 20 non-pregnant women and 13 pregnant women during the gestational period. The variables analyzed were statokinesigram, time and value of the first and second peak and the valley of the vertical component of GRF, time and maximum and minimum value found in the anterior–posterior horizontal component. ResultsCompared to control group, pregnant women had larger center of pressure displacement areas, longer time in the first phase of weight acceptance, lower values of first and second peaks of the vertical component and lower maximum and minimum values of the anterior–posterior horizontal component of the GRF. With respect to quality of life, the physical domain was the most affected in the first trimester. ConclusionThe results demonstrate that in the beginning of the pregnancy, the woman's body seems to already change postural control, and during the trimesters, there is a trend to reduction in postural stability.