Anterior-posterior Stability Index Research Articles

Correlation between the biomechanical characteristics and stability of the 143D movement during the balance phase in competitive Tai Chi

ObjectiveTo explore the biomechanical factors affecting the stability of athletes in the 143D balance phase of competitive Tai Chi.MethodThe Vicon 3D motion capture system, Kistler 3D force platform, and Noraxon surface electromyography (sEMG) system were used to measure the joint angle, joint moment, center of gravity, ground reaction force, and sEMG data of athletes. The stability index was then calculated according to the formula. Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation tests were used to analyze the associations between the biomechanical factors and stability index.Results(1) Medial lateral stability index (MLSI): A significant negative correlation was found between the ankle inversion angle of the supporting leg (SL) and MLSI (p < 0.05). (2) Anterior posterior stability index (APSI): Significant negative correlations were observed between the ankle intorsion angle, integrated electromyography (iEMG) of the gastrocnemius, and muscle contribution rates of the tibialis anterior, external oblique, and gastrocnemius of the non-supporting leg (NL) with the APSI (p < 0.05). The ankle dorsiflexion moment, iEMG of the rectus femoris and tibialis anterior, muscle contribution rate of the biceps femoris, and root mean-squared (RMS) amplitude of the gluteus maximus of the SL also showed significant negative correlations with the APSI (p < 0.05). Strong and significant negative correlations were also identified between the hip intorsion angle, iEMG of the tibialis anterior, and RMS amplitude of the rectus femoris of the NL with the APSI (p < 0.01). Further strong and significant negative correlation was also found between the RMS amplitude of the biceps femoris of the SL and APSI (p < 0.01). The knee extorsion angle of the NL was positively correlated with the APSI (p < 0.05). (3) Dynamic postural stability index (DPSI): The knee adduction angle, iEMG of the tibialis anterior, and RMS amplitude of the erector spinae of the NL were significantly positively correlated with the DPSI (p < 0.05). The knee abduction and hip extension moments of the SL were also significantly positively correlated with the DPSI (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe ankle inversion angle of the SL impacts left–right stability, while the NL’s hip and ankle intorsion angles, knee extorsion angle, and exertion on the core muscle and SL’s main muscles, as well as exertion of specific muscles of the NL affect anterior–posterior stability. The hip extension and knee abduction moments of the SL, knee adduction angle, exertion on the tibialis anterior, and activation of the erector spinae of the NL significantly affect the overall stability of an athlete.

A cross-sectional study to assess dual-task interference in postural control in people with lower limb amputation

BackgroundIn people with lower limb amputation (LLA), the loss of limb structures and peripheral motor and sensory systems result in significant mobility challenges, including impaired postural stability. ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to evaluate the dual-task interference (DTI) on postural control and dual-task interference on cognition during static and dynamic balance in people with LLA and compare the same with controls. The secondary objective of this study was to compare the DTI on postural control and DTI on cognition between LLA of different etiology. DesignCross-sectional observational study MethodologyFifteen people with unilateral LLA and 15 age and gender-matched controls participated in this study at a tertiary care hospital. The outcome measures used were anterior-posterior stability index (APSI), medial-lateral stability index, and overall stability index (OSI) using Biodex Balance System and a cognitive task parameter, namely correct response rate in serial seven subtraction test. Quantitative variables were compared using a Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Spearman's correlation test was used to establish the correlation between the DTI on cognition and the DTI on postural control. ResultsDTI on postural control during static balance was significantly higher in people with LLA than controls (APSI, OSI). No significant difference was observed in DTI on postural control during dynamic balance. No significant difference was observed in DTI on cognition during static and dynamic balance. A significant negative correlation was observed between DTI on cognition and DTI on postural control (APSI) during static balance people with LLA. SignificanceIn people with unilateral LLA, the addition of a cognitive task results in significant deterioration of sagittal plane postural control during static balance but not during dynamic balance due to the over-allocation of resources to a cognitive task.

The Impact of Resistance Training on Equilibrium Abilities and Quality of Life in Older Adults after SARS-CoV-2 Survival.

Background: The scientific literature on COVID-19 and its long-term impacts on all-body systems and their treatments is still limited. The aim of the study was to create a safe protocol-based intervention to improve functional and equilibrium abilities in older adults impacted by COVID-19. Methods: This study used a sample of 46 people (intervention group: n = 26; control group: n = 20). Resistance training (RT) was held twice a week, with 60 min per session for 8 weeks. The postural stability and quality of life questionnaire (WHQOOL) was completed during pre- and post-testing. Results: The results indicated significant differences in overall stability index (OSI) with eyes open (EO), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) EO, fall-risk index 6-2 (FRI6-2) values in males (p < 0.05), and APSI EO (p < 0.05) values in females compared to control groups, respectively. In the training, a significant improvement was reported in OSI EO and APSI EO (p < 0.05) female groups compared to baseline results and in FRI6-2 values in both gender groups (p < 0.01-men, p < 0.05-women). The effect of the intervention was recorded in the intervention group in the OSI EO (Z = -3.12, p < 0.01, R = 0.533) and FRI6-2 (Z = -2.06, p < 0.05, R = 0.354). Additionally, significantly different reactions between the groups were observed in the psychological domain (DOM2) (Z = 2.194, p < 0.028, R = 0.389), social relationship domain (DOM3) (Z = 2.051, p < 0.0403, R = 0.361), and in question 2 concerning general health (Z = 3.309, p < 0.0009, R = 0.535). Conclusions: The findings indicate that RT had a positive effect on older adults affected by COVID-19, led to a significant improvement in their postural stability, and had a significant impact on elements of psychological well-being and quality of life.

Investigation of balance performance of wrestling and kickboxing athletes

Background and Aim. Balance performance is one of the significant requirements to achieve success in wrestling and kickboxing. Although the evaluation of balance performance is important in both sports branches, there are a limited number of studies on this subject. Additionally, there is no study comparing the two branches in terms of balance performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the balance performances of wrestling and kickboxing athletes. Material and Methods. Thirteen Greco-Roman wrestlers (age: 20.69 ± 1.32 years, height: 176.0 ± 4.30 cm, body mass: 75.54 ± 6.81 kg) and thirteen kickboxers (age: 20.23 ± 2.49 years, height: 177. 62 ± 5.03 cm, body mass: 77.08 ± 8.44 kg) who participated in national competitions were included in the study voluntarily. The Biodex Balance System (BBS, Biodex Medical Systems Inc., Shirley, NY) was used to test dynamic balance and three index scores were recorded: overall stability index (OSI), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) and medio-lateral stability index (MLSI). Dynamic balance measurements of the participants were conducted with eyes open condition. An independent sample t-test was used to compare the outputs of the dynamic balance tests of wrestlers and kickboxers. All statistical analyses were conducted using the SPSS software package, version 24.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results. The comparison of dynamic balance between kickboxers and wrestlers revealed no significant differences in the OSI, APSI, and MLSI parameters (p &gt; 0.05). These findings suggest that despite the inherent differences in technical requirements and training protocols between kickboxing and wrestling, both groups of athletes demonstrate similar levels of proficiency in maintaining dynamic balance. Such parity challenges potential assumptions regarding disparities in balance performance across these disciplines. Conclusions. The balance performances of wrestling and kickboxing athletes are similar, as evidenced by the lack of significant differences in dynamic balance parameters between the two groups. This suggests that balance performance may be influenced by the specific features of each sport and the training levels of the athletes, rather than inherent differences between the sports themselves.

Correlation between postural stability and fall risk in trans-femoral amputees due to muscle fatigue.

[Purpose] This study aimed to establish a connection between postural stability and falling in individuals with transfemoral amputation (TFA), particularly with muscle fatigue. [Participants and Methods] Fourteen participants were recruited. Muscle fatigue was induced using a sit-to-stand (STS) fatigue protocol. Pre-fatigue and post-fatigue assessments were conducted using the Biodex Balance System (BBS). [Result] The findings of the study revealed significant increases in the postural stability index between the pre-fatigue and post-fatigue conditions for the TFA group, particularly in the overall stability index (OSI) and anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) components. The mean postural stability index scores for the TFA group exhibited a percentage increase of 65.2% for OSI, 52.7% for APSI, and 50% for medial-lateral stability index (MLSI). Furthermore, the TFA fall risk index surged by 61.4%. Regarding the relationships observed, a significant correlation emerged between fall risk and both OSI and APSI. [Conclusion] These findings underscore the impact of muscle fatigue on postural stability and an increase in fall risk among TFA. By mitigating the effects of muscle fatigue, therapists can play an important role in reducing the risk of falls and promoting better postural stability in this population.

Comparison of postural sway in individuals with and without dynamic knee valgus

BackgroundDynamic knee valgus (DKV) is a multi-planar faulty movement pattern that can cause faulty postural control. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the differences in postural sway (PS) between individuals aged 18–30 years old diagnosed with and without DKV.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 62 students (39 males and 23 females) with and without DKV (age: 24.58 ± 2.63 years) were selected and assigned to two groups by conducting the single-leg squat test in the screening stage. The Biodex balance system was then employed to compare the two groups in PS. Mann–Whitney U test was conducted to compare the groups in PS (p ≤ 0.05).ResultsThe study’s findings indicate that individuals with DKV did not exhibit any significant differences, compared to those without, about the anterior-posterior stability index (with p values for both static and dynamic situations at 0.309 and 0.198, respectively), medial-lateral stability index (with p values for both static and dynamic situations at 0.883 and 0.500, respectively), and overall stability index (with p values for both static and dynamic situations at 0.277 and 0.086, respectively).ConclusionThough several possible factors could contribute to the lack of significant differences in postural sway between individuals with and without DKV, such as measurement tool differences, variable sensitivity in postural stability tests, and differences in movement variability and test stance, we recommend analyzing postural sway in more functional tasks and with different methodological patterns in future studies. Such research could help develop targeted interventions for individuals with DKV and offer a better understanding of the relationship between postural control and DKV.

The influence of quadriceps and hamstring strength on balance performance

Background and Study Aim. Muscular strength and balance are important components of athletic performance, and the muscles around the knee (Quadriceps and Hamstrings) provide joint stability when the knee is in motion. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between quadriceps/hamstring (H/Q) muscle strength, Hamstring/Quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratio and balance performance. Material and Methods. Ten male volunteers with an average age of 21.60±2.11 years, height 176.40±4.67 cm, and body weight 76.50±8.85 kg, who were students of the Faculty of Sports Sciences. Performance tests included dynamic and static balance using the Biodex Balance System and isokinetic strength using the Cybex Humac NORM®. Results. Statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) results in dynamic balance scores were found in the correlation of H/Q ratio and overall stability index (OSI) in the left leg (r =-0.645), and in the correlation of peak torque hamstring and anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) in the right leg (r =0.671). Statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) results in static balance scores were found in the correlations of peak torque quadriceps with OSI (r=-0.760) and anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) (r=-0.650) in the right leg. No statistically significant results were found for the left leg in the static balance scores. Conclusions. As a result of the study, the relationship between quadriceps and hamstring strength and H/Q ratios and balance performance without ignoring the fact that balance is a complex feature involving the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems. It can be said that muscle strength is an important factor in balance performance based on our study and other sources.

Somatic characteristic, morphological asymmetry and postural stability of youth male canoeists compared to control. A cross-sectional study.

To determine the relationships between selected morphological characteristics and the level of body composition asymmetry with postural stability among canoeists and a control group. The sample consisted of 43 males (21 canoeists 21.8±3.29 years and 22 university students 21.7±1.32 years). Measurements included body height and weight. Segmental body composition analysis was assessed using the bioelectrical impedance by determining: fat mass (FM, kg, %), fat-free mass (FFM, kg) and predicted muscle mass (PMM, kg). Postural stability was tested using the BIODEX Balance System. Anterior-posterior stability index (APSI), medial-lateral stability index (MLSI) and overall stability index (OSI) were calculated. Our findings suggest that the canoeists had statistically lower level of fatty tissue compared to controls. There was a statistically important difference between groups in lower limb FM (% and kg). In both groups morphological asymmetry was observed, but in most cases-in athletes. Asymmetries between right and left arms appeared in all parameters, while asymmetries between right and left legs were noted in all parameters except FM (kg). There were relationships between stature and body weight with postural stability in canoeists. Canoeists demonstrated better balance than controls, particularly in the APSI. For all stability indices, significant differences were observed between right and left legs across all participants. Athletes, with larger asymmetries or poorer balance, require more attention to improve performance and reduce the risk of overload injury. Future studies needed to develop sport-specific level of morphofunctional asymmetry which would be optimal for sport results and health as well.

Knee stability training exercise versus Biodex balance training on dynamic balance indices in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A Randomized clinical trial

Objective. To compare the impacts of Knee stability training exercise versus Biodex balance training on dynamic balance indices in individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis. Methods. This randomized, double-blind, pre-post measurement study included forty patients aged 45 to 65 with knee osteoarthritis. They were classified into 2 groups at random: group A (n = 20), which received knee stability training plus strengthening exercise, and group B (n = 20), which received Biodex balance training plus strengthening exercise. The Biodex Balance System and Visual Analog Scale were utilized to quantify dynamic balance indices as well as pain intensity at baseline and four weeks following therapy. Results. Statistically significant differences were reported in the overall stability index (OASI), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI), medial-lateral stability indices (MLSI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) values before and after treatment for group A (p &lt; 0.05) as well as before and after treatment for group B (p &lt; 0.05). Statistically significant differences were reported among the two groups (A &amp; B) regarding the post-treatment values of the OASI, APSI, MLSI, and VAS (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion. Improvement in all dynamic balance indices and pain was reported after knee stability training exercises and after Biodex balance training, with greater improvement after Biodex balance training.

Less impact absorption at the ankle joint is related to the single-leg landing stability deficit in patients with chronic ankle instability

Single-leg landing (SLL) stability deficits are common dysfunctions after lateral ankle sprain (LAS), and are associated with reinjury and needs to be addressed. SLL stability deficits could be associated with impact absorption ability. Thus, we evaluated these relationships. We recruited 46 patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI) and 64 control patients and measured their kinematics, SLL stability, and impact absorption ability. The SLL stability was evaluated by calculating the anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) and medial–lateral stability index (MLSI). The impact absorption ability was evaluated by calculating the energy absorption (EA). The large negative value of the EA indicated the absorption of a large amount of energy. The Japanese version of identification of functional ankle instability (IdFAI-J) score (P < 0.001), MLSI value (P = 0.004), and sagittal plane ankle EA value (less EA at ankle joint) (P < 0.001) were significantly high in CAI, and sagittal plane knee EA value (more EA at knee joint) (P < 0.041) was significantly low in CAI than in the control group. Multiple regression analysis showed that the APSI was associated with sagittal plane ankle EA (β = 0.275, P = 0.004). The MLSI was associated with sagittal plane ankle EA (β = 0.204, P = 0.034) and the idFAI score (β = 0.234, P = 0.015). The SLL stability impairment after LAS was related to decreased impact absorption ability at the ankle joint.

Relationship between postural stability and fall risk in young adult after lower limb muscle fatigue

&#x0D; Introduction: Muscle fatigue can reduce body balance and activity of daily living tasks. Therefore, this study aims to identify the correlation between postural stability and fall risk due to muscle fatigue. The components in postural stability include Overall Stability Index (OSI), Anterior-Posterior Stability Index (APSI), and Mediolateral Stability Index (MLSI).&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; Design and Methods: A total of seven healthy adults aged 31.1±7.4 years were recruited in this study. The sit-to-stand (STS) protocol was used to induce lower limb muscle fatigue, while postural stability and fall risk were assessed using the Biodex Balance System (BBS) before and after muscle fatigue. &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; Result: The result showed a significant increase in postural stability index after fatigue only for OSI with p&lt;0.05, while no significant difference was found on APSI and MLSI with p=0.157 and p=0.109 respectively. However, the mean score for the postural stability index showed an increase in percentage with 47.8% in OSI, 26.3% in APSI and 46.8% in MLSI. Furthermore,fall risk showed no significant differences with p=0.149, but the mean score data increased by 16.7% after fatigue. The correlation between fall risk and OSI was significant with p&lt;0.05, while MLSI had a significant negative correlation with APSI (p&lt;0.05). &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusions: Based on the results, the young adults had reduced overall postural stability but were less affected by fall risk after muscle fatigue. The positive correlation between OSI and fall risk indicated that their overall postural stability can induce the fall risk after muscle fatigue. Therefore, young adults need to be aware of their fatigue symptoms during prolonged exercise that can increase fall risk potential.&#x0D;

Balance and Fall Risk Assessment in Community-Dwelling Older Adults after Recovery from COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study.

SARS-CoV-2 atypical symptoms in older persons include falls, confusion, dizziness, and unusual weariness. Falls and their consequences are among the most prevalent causes of disability among older adults, significantly lowering quality of life and resulting in the loss of independence as well as impaired psychosocial functioning. The study purpose was to examine the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 infectious disease on balance in community-dwelling older adults. Sixty-four older adults aged ≥ 60 years from both sexes, 31 treated for SARS-CoV-2 infection and 33 matched normal controls participated in the study. The Biodex Stability System (BSS) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) were used for evaluation of balance and fall risk. The correlation between the Biodex overall stability index and the Berg Balance Scale score was investigated. When compared to controls, the SARS-CoV-2 group had significantly higher values of the Biodex overall stability index (OSI) (p = 0.011), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) (p = 0.013), mediolateral stability index (MLSI) (p = 0.018), and fall risk index (FRI) (p = 0.008), as well as statistically lower scores on the Berg balance scale (p = 0.003). A moderate negative correlation was found between the two assessment tools in the SARS-CoV-2 group. Balance impairment and an increased risk of falling are among the outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 in community-dwelling older adults.

Does Physical Activity Moderate the Relationship between Myopia and Functional Status in Children 9-11 Years of Age?

Although previous studies have reported an association between physical activity (PA) and myopia in school-aged children, little is known about the link between myopia and children’s functional status. The purpose of this study was to investigate dynamic balance control in relation to the daily PA levels of myopic schoolchildren aged 9–11 years (n = 52) versus a non-myopic control group (n = 53). A single leg stance test performed on the instability platform of the Biodex Balance System was used to assess balance control. The overall stability index (OSI), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) and medial-lateral stability index (MLSI) were analyzed. PA levels were calculated using the World Health Organization European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative family record form. Myopes and non-myopes were separated into three subgroups based on PA level (low, moderate and high). Myopia significantly affected OSI (F = 40.46, p < 0.001), APSI (F = 33.93, p < 0.001) and MLSI (F = 49.51, p < 0.001). There were significant differences (p < 0.001) between myopic and non-myopic children with low and moderate levels of PA, whilst there were no differences between compared children with high levels of PA. High PA levels had a positive impact on balance control in myopes. Our results showed that PA levels moderate the relationship between myopia and children’s functional status.

Validity of the frame subtraction method in dynamic postural stability.

BackgroundThe movement of targeted subjects can be calculated using the frame subtraction method. However, the validity of this evaluation method of dynamic postural stability has not been clarified yet. This study aimed to verify the validity of the evaluation method for jump landing using the frame subtraction score based on the ground reaction force (GRF).MethodsTwenty subjects performed single-leg jump landing, and their dynamic postural stability index (DPSI), medial‒lateral stability index (MLSI), anterior‒posterior stability index, and vertical stability index (VSI) were calculated from the GRF. Simultaneously, motion images were captured using digital video cameras in the sagittal and frontal planes. After the motion images were analyzed using the frame subtraction method, the frame subtraction scores in the frontal, sagittal, and combined planes were calculated. To confirm its validity, the relationship between the frame subtraction scores and GRF parameters was investigated using Pearson's correlation analysis.ResultsThe frame subtraction scores in the frontal and combined planes were significantly correlated with the DPSI, MLSI, and VSI (r = 0.46–0.75, P < 0.05).ConclusionsTherefore, the frame subtraction method could be applied to the evaluation of dynamic postural stability. Markerless systems are deemed useful in clinical practice.

Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation over the Primary Motor Cortex in Improving Postural Stability in Healthy Young Adults.

Simple SummaryTranscranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is used as an adjuvant rehabilitation treatment to improve postural control and lower limb function. This study explored the effects of sham and anodal tDCS over the leg region of M1 on static and dynamic postural stability in healthy young adults. Jump-landing tasks were used to examine dynamic postural stability. Static postural stability was assessed by a single-leg stand on force plates with open eyes. Anodal tDCS had an immediate improving effect on static and dynamic postural stability, and might evolve as an adjuvant rehabilitation treatment to enhance postural deficits in the future.Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the primary motor cortex (M1) is of increasing interest to improve motor performance in healthy adults and patients with respective deficits. This study aimed to examine whether tDCS over M1 can improve static and dynamic postural stability in young healthy adults. Seventeen healthy participants (mean age = 25.14 ± 2.50 (standard deviation, SD) years) received sham and anodal tDCS (2 mA) over the vertex at the Cz electrode position for 15 min. Static and dynamic postural stability were evaluated before and immediately after tDCS. The center of pressure (COP) sway area (COPSA) and COP maximum displacements to medio-lateral (COPML) and antero-posterior directions (COPAP) were used to evaluate static postural stability. The anterior–posterior stability index (APSI), medial–lateral stability index (MLSI), vertical stability index (VSI), dynamic postural stability index (DPSI), and time to stabilization (TTS) in forward (FL), 45° anterior lateral (LL), and 45° anterior medial (ML) direction landing, as well as the Y-balance composite score (YBTCS) were used to assess dynamic postural stability. The results showed that the LL-TTS (p = 0.044), non-dominant leg COPSA (p = 0.015), and YBTCS (p < 0.0001) were significantly improved in the real stimulation as compared with the sham stimulation session, and anodal tDCS significantly changed dominant leg COPAP (p = 0.021), FL-APSI (p < 0.0001), FL-TTS (p = 0.008), ML-TTS (p = 0.002), non-dominant leg YBTCS (p < 0.0001), and dominant leg YBTCS (p = 0.014). There were no significant differences in all obtained balance values in the sham stimulation session, except for non-dominant leg YBTCS (p = 0.049). We conclude that anodal tDCS over M1 has an immediate improving effect on static postural stability and dynamic performance in young healthy adults. This makes tDCS a promising adjuvant rehabilitation treatment to enhance postural stability deficits in the future.

Lower limb musculoskeletal profiling in Malaysian professional footballers during pre-season pre-competition medical assessments

Background: Lower limb musculoskeletal profiling is important in pre-competition medical assessment (PCMA) as it helps to identify musculoskeletal pathologies that need rehabilitation and risk factors for injury that need specific prevention programme. However, a normative value is needed to identify which is normal or pathological. Our objective in this study is to establish a normative value for football-specific adaptation of lower limb musculoskeletal examination among Malaysian professional footballers. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective cross-sectional examining 83 Malaysian footballers from a single club during PCMA from 17 January 2022 to 17 February 2022. We included anthropometric assessments using body impedance analysis, objective lower limb muscle strength assessments using handheld dynamometer, range of motion and objective dynamic balance test using the Biodex system. Results: The mean age of our study was 20.3 ± 3 years. Goalkeepers and defenders have a higher body mass index and a higher skeletal muscle mass. Strikers and midfielders have a higher quadriceps and hamstring strength. Non-dominant leg has a better overall stability and anterior posterior stability index compared to dominant leg. Defender has a better overall stability. Sixty-six footballers (80%) have at least 1 low Add: Abd ratio of less than 0.9, which requires preventive programme for groin injury. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a position-specific adaptation in different positions in football.

Does insole hardness affect the dynamic postural stability of basketball athletes during jump landing?

This study aimed to examine the effects of shoe insole hardness on the dynamic postural stability of basketball athletes during jump landing manoeuvres. Twenty college basketball athletes were recruited to complete a single-leg jump landing task on a force plate in three insole conditions (soft-, rigid- and no-insole). Kistler force plate and Pedar-X insole system were used to collect the ground reaction force (GRF) and plantar pressure data. Dynamic Postural Stability Index (DPSI), Anterior-Posterior Stability Index (APSI), Medial-Lateral Stability Index (MLSI), and Vertical Stability Index (VSI) were then calculated from GRF data. DPSI, APSI, MLSI, and VSI were statistically conducted among the three insole conditions by a one-way ANOVA with repeated measures. MLSI were decreased when wearing soft- and rigid insoles compared with no-insole condition (p &lt; 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in APSI and VSI among the three insole conditions. In the midfoot region, contact areas were increased in the soft- and rigid insole than the no-insole condition (p &lt; 0.0001). Dynamic balance of basketball athletes in the medial-lateral direction could be enhanced by wearing insoles during jump landings tasks. However, the postural stability of basketball athletes did not increase with insole hardness increasing.

Effects of vitamin D supplementation and aerobic exercises on balance and physical performance in children with Down syndrome

Background/Aims Children with Down syndrome are prone to vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D supplements are commonly used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiencies. There is growing evidence that support the role of vitamin D improving muscles and central nervous system function. The aim of this study was to investigate the interaction effects of vitamin D supplementation combined with aerobic exercises and conventional physical therapy on balance and physical performance in children with Down syndrome. Methods A randomised controlled trial was conducted for 38 children with Down syndrome, with ages ranging from 8 to 12 years. They were divided randomly into two groups. The control group (n=19) received conventional physical therapy and aerobic exercises, while the study group (n=19) received conventional physical therapy, aerobic exercises and vitamin D in the form of an oral daily dose of vitamin D3 400 IU (cholecalciferol). The children in both groups participated in the same physical therapy for 45 minutes, 3 days a week for 12 weeks, and undertook 15 minutes of aerobic exercise after the physical therapy sessions. Balance was evaluated by using the Biodex Stability System and physical performance was evaluated by using the 6-Minute Walk Test. Results All groups showed a significant improvement in the medial-lateral stability index, the anterior-posterior stability index, the overall stability index and the 6-Minute Walk Test after treatment (P&lt;0.05). The study group showed a significant improvement in the measured variables compared with that of the control group (P&lt;0.05). Conclusions Vitamin D supplements, combined with aerobic exercises and conventional physical therapy, could improve balance and physical performance in children with Down syndrome. Therefore, vitamin D and aerobic exercises should be considered as an adjunctive to physical therapy.

Acute short term effects of endurance and resistance training on balance control in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Purpose Exercise training have numerous beneficial effects on the complications of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Exercise training may cause immediate effects on balance control in DPN patients. This study aims to assess the Acute Short Term effects of endurance and resistance exercise training on balance control in DPN patients. Methods In this study, 11 patients with DPN and 11 healthy subjects participated. Patients and healthy subjects did endurance and resistance training in two separate exercise sessions. Dynamic balance and functional balance test were assessed before and after the interventions. Independent t-test was used to compare balance indices before and after training, the intervention effects were examined using ANOVA repeated measure test. The statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results The results showed that dynamic and functional balance in DPN patients were significantly lower than in healthy subjects. Anterior-posterior stability and total stability indices and functional balance test deteriorated significantly after training. Conclusion Endurance or resistance training may lead to acute disturbance of dynamic and functional balance in DPN patients. Hence, immediately after exercise, patients with diabetes are at an increased risk of falling, therefore, preventive considerations are necessary.

Does a Lower Limb Balance Test after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Have a Significant Correlation with Postoperative Clinical Score, Stability, and Functional Performance Test?

Lower limb balance ability is reduced after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). However, the recovery of balance based on functional test scores after ACLR is not known because the correlation between balance and clinical scores remains unclear. We aimed to analyze the correlation between lower limb balance assessed by functional test and clinical knee test scores after ACLR. We evaluated lower limb balance using the anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) of the Biodex Balance System (BBS). Patients underwent clinical tests to evaluate the knee, including the Tegner activity score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, Lysholm score, and KT-2000 arthrometer measurement, hamstring per quadriceps muscle strength ratio at 60°/sec (HQ ratio), and functional performance tests (single-leg hop and single-leg vertical jump tests) 1 year after ACLR. We used a paired t-test to compare continuous preoperative and postoperative variables and Pearson's correlation coefficient to determine the relationship between BBS-APSI and clinical scores. Forty-eight patients (35 men and 13 women; mean age, 28.9 ± 8.3 years) were included. The follow-up period and BBS-APSI were 12.4 ± 2.0 months and 0.9 ± 0.4, respectively. Tegner activity score, IKDC subjective score, Lysholm score, and KT-2000 arthrometer measurement improved significantly postoperatively (p < 0.001). BBS-APSI was correlated with the Tegner activity score (r = -0.335, p = 0.020), IKDC subjective score (r = -0.301, p = 0.037), Lysholm score (r = -0.323, p = 0.025), single-leg hop test results (r = -0.300, p = 0.038), and single-leg vertical jump test results (r = -0.336, p = 0.019). There was no correlation between KT-2000 arthrometer measurement and HQ ratio. BBS-APSI was correlated with functional performance test scores after ACLR, rendering the BBS-APSI as a useful assessment tool to evaluate postoperative functional recovery. Continuously improving balance after ACLR could be useful for functional recovery after surgery.