Rate of concurrent augmented auditory feedback in postural control learning in adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: The main objective of this study was to determine the rate of auditory concurrent feedback that best enhanced the learning of a continuous postural task in adolescents. Material and methods: A sample of thirty adolescents (13 to 14-years old) was used, who were assigned to three groups: i) control group (CG); ii) 100% auditory feedback group and iii) 67% auditory feedback group. The subjects performed a pre-test, practice, post-test and a retention (24 hours after the practice). In the postural control task subjects were instructed to remain on a seesaw (unstable in anteroposterior position) and keeping it as level as possible. Results: The results demonstrated that concurrent auditory feedback did not enhance the performance of the continuous postural task, although concurrent auditory feedback (both 100% and 67% rates) caused changes to the postural control strategies. Conclusions: From this it was concluded that 100% and 67% concurrent auditory feedback are more recommendable than no-feedback in adolescents’ postural control learning.