Variations in Limits of Stability under different Sensory Conditions among Young Adult Women

Abstract

Background: Good postural stability is required for the integrated functions of visual, somatosensory and vestibular system. But there is a less evidence related to limits of stability variations under different sensory conditions in young adult women by using swaymetre. Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the variations in limits of stability under different sensory conditions among young adult women. Methods: A total of 15 female subjects of age group between18-22 were selected based on convenient sampling. All participants were exposed to different sensory conditions for assessing the steadiness and maximum balance range by using swaymetre. These parameters were measured both in A-P and M-L directions. The study was conducted in PSG Evidence-based Neuro Rehabilitation Centre, Department of Neurological Physical Therapy, PSG Hospitals, Coimbatore. Mean difference of steadiness and maximum balance range was used as statistical stool. Results: The values obtained as mean differences of steadiness and maximum balance range with eyes open and eyes closed in A-P and M-L directions on flat and foam surfaces were real data. Obtained values of steadiness and maximum balance range were mentioned. The mean differences of steadiness with eyes open in A-P and M-L directions on flat and foam surfaces were 13.54mm & 14.60mm and with eyes closed are 49.07mm & 55.33mm respectively. The mean differences of maximum balance range with eyes open in A-P and M-L directions on flat and foam surfaces were 31.06 & 54mm and with eyes closed are 2.13mm and 49.53mm respectively. The mean differences of steadiness in A-P and M-L directions on flat surface with eyes open and eyes closed were 2.6mm and 2.14mm and on foam surface with eyes open and eyes closed were 38.13mm and 42.93mm respectively. The mean differences of maximum balance range in A-P and M-L directions on flat surface with eyes open and eyes closed were 20.06mm & 10.5mm and on foam surface with eyes open and eyes closed were 10.13mm and 6mm respectively. Conclusion: Vision, Proprioception and Vestibular system play a major role in maintaining the postural stability under different sensory conditions. This study recommends the obtained values for the limits of stability under different sensory conditions for women using swaymetre can be used as a baseline value for further studies.