Anteroposterior Stability Index Research Articles

Single-Session Cerebellar Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Improves Postural Stability and Reduces Ataxia Symptoms in Spinocerebellar Ataxia.

Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) results in balance and coordination impairment, and current treatments have limited efficacy. Recent evidence suggests that combining postural training with cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (ctDCS) can improve these symptoms. However, the combined effects of ctDCS and postural training on individuals with spinocerebellar ataxia remain underexplored. Ten volunteers with (SCA type 3) participated in a triple-blind, randomized, crossover study to receive a single session of ctDCS (2mA for 20min) and a sham ctDCS session separated by at least one week. The Biodex Balance System was used to assess balance at each session, measuring overall stability index, anteroposterior stability index, and medial-lateral stability index. As secondary outcomes, cerebellar ataxia symptoms were evaluated using the 8-item Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia. The assessments were conducted before and after each session. The results indicated that ctDCS enhanced the overall stability index when compared to sham ctDCS (Z = -2.10, p = 0.03), although it did not significantly affect the anteroposterior or medial-lateral stability indices. Compared to the baseline, a single session of ctDCS reduced appendicular symptoms related to cerebellar ataxia, as evidenced by improvements in the nose-finger test (Z = -2.07, p = 0.04), fast alternating hand movements (Z = -2.15, p = 0.03), and heel-to-shin slide (Z = -1.91, p = 0.05). In conclusion, our study suggests that a single session of ctDCS, in combination with postural training, can enhance balance and alleviate ataxia symptoms in individuals with cerebellar ataxia. This study was approved by the local research ethics committee (No. 2.877.813) and registered on clinicaltrials.org (NCT04039048 - https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04039048 ) on 2019-07-28.

Relationship between foot morphologic characteristic and postural control after jump-landing in youth competitive athletes.

Foot arch dynamics play an important role in dynamic postural control. Association between foot arch dynamics and postural control among adolescent athletes remains poorly explored. To examine the relationship between foot arch dynamics, intrinsic foot muscle (IFM) morphology, and toe flexor strength and dynamic postural stability after jump landing and repetitive rebound jump performance in competitive adolescent athletes. Based on foot arch dynamics, evaluated from relative change in the foot arch height in sitting and standing positions, 50 adolescent athletes were classified as stiff, normal, or flexible. IFM morphology was evaluated by ultrasonography. Dynamic postural stability index (DPSI) was measured as participants jumped and landed with the right leg onto a force plate, whereas repetitive rebound jumping performance was assessed using the jump height and reactive jump index. The stiff group had a significantly worse DPSI and vertical stability index than the normal group (p= 0.26, p= 0.44, respectively), and worse anteroposterior stability index (APSI) values than the flexible group (p= 0.005). Multivariate regression models of the relationship between the APSI and foot arch dynamics showed adequate power (probability of error = 0.912). Increased foot arch stiffness negatively affects dynamic balance during jump-landing, which may deteriorate their performance.

IS THERE ANY EFFECT OF THE SEVERITY OF FLEXIBLE PES PLANUS ON THE BALANCE PERFORMANCE IN ELITE GYMNASTS?

Flexibility is an important component of athleticism in gymnasts' training, as its insufficient development can significantly complicate the process of formation of specific skills and movement coordination and limit the possibility of manifesting and increasing strength and speed abilities (Дейнеко & Біленька, 2021). The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of the severity of FPP on balance performance in different planes (frontal, sagittal and overall balance) in the Turkish national youth team. This study is a prospective and double-blinded cohort study conducted in the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation of Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University. The evaluation protocol consists of two main phases: first, the measurement of joint positions or angles (subtalar joint position, subtalar joint angle, first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) extension angle and tibia-femoral angle measurement), second, the measurement of balance. 20 participants aged 13-18 years, male and female, from the Turkish national youth gymnastics team were included in this study. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine whether there is an effect of severity of FPP on balance performance. There is no clear effect of FPP severity on balance performance in youth gymnastics at the national level. However, some evaluations show significant associations in the frontal plane in relation to the mediolateral stability index. None of the assessments showed a significant association with the anteroposterior stability index.

Predictors of static and dynamic balance control in kidney transplant recipients.

We aimed to evaluate balance control and lower extremity muscle strength in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) including acomparison to ahealthy control group and determine the predictors of static and dynamic balance control after kidney transplantation. In this study 40 KTRs and 40healthy controls were included. Balance control was assessed using the Biodex balance system. The static postural stability test (SPST) and clinical test of sensory integration and balance (CTSIB) were used to assess static balance control whereas the dynamic postural stability test (DPST) and limits of stability test (LOST) were used for dynamic balance control. Lower extremity muscle strength was measured with ahand-held dynamometer. Renal functions and laboratory findings of KTRs were recorded. All the stability index scores of SPST and sway index in CTSIB were significantly higher in KTRs compared to healthy controls. The right anteroposterior stability index score in DPST and the reaction time in LOST were significantly higher whereas overall score in LOST and lower extremity muscle strength were significantly lower in KTRs. The linear regression analysis revealed that hemoglobin was the predictor of static balance control accounting for 11% of the variance and body weight was the predictor of dynamic balance control accounting for 34% of the variance. Balance control, both static and dynamic, are impaired in KTRs as well as lower extremity muscle strength. Hemoglobin level is apredictor of static balance control whereas body weight is apredictor of dynamic balance control after kidney transplantation.

Effect of anti-gravity treadmill (Alter G) training on gait characteristics and postural stability in adult with healed burns: A single blinded randomized controlled trial

BackgroundBurns constitute one of the foremost contributors to premature mortality and morbidity, and the recovery process from burn injuries is characterized by its intricate and protracted nature. ObjectiveThe principal aim of this study was to assess the influence of an anti-gravity treadmill (Alter G) training program on both gait characteristics and postural stability indices (PSI) in adult individuals who have recovered from burns. DesignThis study followed a single-blind, randomized, controlled design. MethodsA total of 45 adults, aged 18–35 years, with healed lower extremity burns that were circumferential and encompassed 35–50% of their total body surface area (TBSA) were randomly allocated to either the anti-gravity treadmill (Alter G) Training group (n = 22) or the traditional physical therapy program (TPTP) group (n=23). The TPTP group received conventional physical therapy, while the anti-gravity treadmill (Alter G) training group engaged in anti-gravity treadmill exercises alongside the traditional physical therapy program. The primary outcome measures, evaluated at both baseline and the conclusion of the 12-week intervention, included gait characteristics assessed using the GAITRite system and PSI measured by the Biodex Balance System (BBS). ResultsThe anti-gravity treadmill (Alter G) training group exhibited significantly greater enhancements than the TPTP group in terms of mean values and percentage changes in gait characteristics and PSI. Specifically, the percentage changes for the Alter G group were as follows: stride length (20.57%), step time (22.58%), step length (20.47%), velocity (15.67%), cadence (23.28%), and double support time (29.03%). In contrast, the TPTP group’s percentage changes were: 6.73%, 8.19%, 7.65%, 7.75%, 8.89%, and 9.37%, respectively. Concerning PSI, the Alter G group exhibited percentage changes of 55.17% for the medio-lateral stability index (MLI), 48.21% for antero-posterior stability index (API), and 48.48% for the overall stability index (OSI). The TPTP group’s corresponding percentage changes were 20%, 14.03%, and 16.41%. ConclusionsThe amalgamation of anti-gravity treadmill training with the traditional physical therapy program yields greater efficacy than TPTP in isolation. Consequently, the findings underscore the efficiency of anti-gravity treadmill (Alter G) Training as a valuable tool for rehabilitating patients with burn injuries.

Which is superior for postural stability: contact lens or spectacles?

ABSTRACT Clinical relevance The visual system plays an important role in providing postural balance. Visual input must have good quality to ensure proper balance. Background The aim of this work is to compare the use of soft contact lenses and spectacles in terms of postural stability. Methods Patients who wore both soft spherical or toric contact lenses and spectacles were examined between February and July, 2021. A detailed ophthalmic examination, including contact lens evaluation, was performed. The aim was to fully correct the refractive error and to prescribe the most appropriate spectacle and contact lens correction. After 1 month of use, patients were subjected to the balance test. The balance tests were repeated using the Biodex Balance System (Biodex Inc. Shirley, New York, USA), first with contact lenses and then with spectacles, 15 minutes later. Static and dynamic postural stability indices were compared. Results Thirty patients were included in the study. The mean age of the study group was 31.33 ± 4.54 (26–40) years. All patients had myopic refractive errors (20 patients with myopia and 10 patients with myopia and astigmatism). The mean spherical equivalent was −2.95 ± 1.81 (−4.50–(−0.50)) D. Static stability index score was found to be statistically significantly better in tests with contact lenses (p = 0.004). Among the dynamic postural stability parameters, overall stability index and antero-posterior stability index (APSI) scores with contact lenses were better than with spectacles, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05 for both). Medio-lateral stability index (MLSI) score was better in tests with contact lenses (p < 0.001). Conclusion Contact lenses may provide better static and dynamic postural balance than spectacles in young patients with myopic refractive errors.

The Effect of Kinesio Taping on Balance and Dynamic Stability in College-Age Recreational Runners with Ankle Instability.

(1) Background: Running is one of many sports that have increased in popularity since it can be conducted at any time or anywhere. Ankle instability is a common injury that usually occurs during running and is usually associated with abnormalities in postural stability. Recently, kinesio taping has gained increasing interest as a tool that can be used in rehabilitation, to improve stability, and to help in injury prevention. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Kinesio taping on balance and dynamic stability in recreational runners with ankle instability. (2) Methods: This randomized controlled trial recruited 90 RRs with ankle instability. The participants were randomly divided into three equal groups: a KT group (KTG) who received Kinesio taping on their ankle joints; a mixed group (MG) who received Kinesio taping and exercises; and an exercise group (EG) who received exercises only. Outcome measures (balance and dynamic stability) were assessed before and after the end of an 8-week treatment program using a Biodex balance system and a star excursion balance test, respectively. (3) Results: Within-group comparisons showed statistically significant improvements in most of the outcome values when compared to baseline. Overall stability index was statistically significantly better (with a high effect size) in the MG compared to KTG or EG (p = 0.01, Cohen's d = 1.6, and p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.63, respectively). A similar finding was evident in the anteroposterior stability index (p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.95, and p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.22, respectively). The mediolateral stability index of the KTG was statistically significantly better with a high effect size when compared to MG or EG (p = 0.04, Cohen's d = 0.6, and p < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.96, respectively). The star excursion balance test values were statistically significant with high effect sizes in the posterior (p = 0.002, Cohen's d = 1.2) and lateral (p < 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.92) directions in the MG compared to KTG and EG. (4) Conclusions: Kinesiotape with exercises is superior to either kinesiotape alone or exercises alone in improving postural stability indices and dynamic stability in recreational runners with ankle instability. Recreational runners with ankle instability should be educated about practicing balance exercises and applying kinesiotape.

Assessment of Vestibular System and Balance Function in Patients with Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the balance and vestibular system of patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Materials and Method: A prospective case–control study was performed in a university hospital. The study population consisted of 37 patients (16 patient group, 21 control group). The Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction Balance was performed in four conditions: 1) eyes open, firm surface; 2) eyes closed, firm surface; 3) eyes closed, foam surface; and 4) eyes open, foam surface. The Equilibrium Score, Anteroposterior Stability Index, Mediolateral Stability Index were employed for all conditions in both groups. Scores were compared between and within groups. Additionally, the physical activity of the patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome was assessed using questionnaires based on the Turkish versions of the Modified Falls Efficacy Scale and the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. Results: There were no significant differences in terms of stability index and equilibrium scores with eyes open or closed conditions between the two groups; the only difference was in the mean mediolateral stability index score in the eyes open, firm surface condition with low scores in the pseudoexfoliation group (p=0.01). In the group analysis, patients with pseudoexfoliation had a significant increase in the equilibrium scores when their eyes were closed in the firm and foam surface conditions (p=0.001 for both). Conclusion: The central nervous system redistributes its dependence on sensory information when vision is compromised in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Their somatosensory input might deteriorate in some way but not the vestibular system. Keywords: Dizziness; Glaucoma; Aged.

Association between pelvic inclination and balance in children with spastic diplegia

BackgroundChildren with spastic diplegia experience gait abnormalities and problems caused by deficits in balance, motor control, and spasticity. Abnormal pelvic inclination is common in patients with diplegia which may result in poor pelvic balance.PurposeThis study was conducted to investigate the relation between pelvic inclination and standing balance in children with spastic diplegia.Subjects and methodsThirty children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy from both sexes, aged from 5 to 14 years participated in this study. Their degree of spasticity ranged from 1 to 1+ according to Modified Ashworth Scale and they were on level I or II on Gross Motor Function Classification System. Pelvic inclination angle was measured by using the formetric instrumentation system during standing position while standing balance was assessed by the Biodex Balance System.ResultsThere was a statistically significant relation between pelvic inclination and the overall, anteroposterior, and mediolateral stability indices of standing balance (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe obtained results suggested that there was significant correlation between balance and pelvic inclination in children with diplegic cerebral palsy.

Posture stability and risk of fall test in the objective assessment of balance in patients with ectopic bone tissue after total hip replacement

Introduction. Total hip replacement is an operative treatment method for end-stage osteoarthritis, considered the most effective nowadays. One of the typical complications after the procedure is heterotopic ossification which may influence patient posture stability and increase the risk of falls. Aim. The study aimed to assess whether patients developing heterotopic ossifications after total hip replacement have a higher risk of falls in comparison to the matched-cohort group without them. Materials and methods. 46 out of 312 patients undergoing a total hip replacement in 2020 who developed heterotopic ossifications were observed. For these patients, a propensity score based on age, sex, and BMI was generated, and a matched-cohort control group consisting of 39 patients was selected. Each patient was operated on via an anterolateral approach, and an uncemented total hip prosthesis was implanted. Patients from both cohorts underwent postoperative radiological and biomechanical assessment and fulfilled WOMA C and Oxford questionnaires pre-and postoperatively. Statistical analyses of the results were performed. Results. There were statistically significant differences between cohorts in the postural stability test (4.9±1.1 vs 2.0±1.0 p&lt;0.05), antero-posterior stability index (3.6±1.2 vs 1.6±0.9, p&lt;0.05), medio-lateral stability index (3.0±1.3 vs 1.0±0.7, p&lt;0.05) and risk of fall test (9.8±1.0 vs 7.8±1.0, p&lt;0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed in the WOMA C and Oxford questionnaires. Conclusions. Our study proved that heterotopic ossifications, which appear in hip abductor muscles, could have an impact on balance and the risk of falls in patients after total hip replacement. In the elderly population, this can result in serious consequences such as a periprosthetic fracture or head trauma after total hip replacement.

Impact of femoral anteversion and tibial torsion on balance in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy

Purpose: To investigate the relation between femoral anteversion angle, tibial torsion and balance abilities in children with spastic diaplegic cerebral palsy. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational research design study utilizing a sample of 50 spastic diplegic children (22 girls and 28 boys), with gross motor functional classification system levels I, II were recruited and their ages ranged from 7 to 13 years. Femoral anteversion and tibial torsion angles were measured by computed tomography scan, while balance abilities were assessed by Biodex balance system. Results: Data analysis revealed that there was a statistically significant moderate positive correlation between right femoral anteversion angle and the overall stability index and the antero posterior stability index, while a weak positive non-significant correlation with the medio-lateral stability index was found. There was a weak negative non-significant correlation between left femoral anteversion angle and stability indices. There was a weak non-significant correlation between tibial torsion angle and stability indices. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the relation between femoral anteversion angle, tibial torsion angle and balance in spastic diplegic children can provide quantitative and objective information that could be used in the clinical assessment and rehabilitation strategies.

Postural stability, fall risk and sensory integration of balance in discogenic low back pain

BACKGROUND: Even though studies have reported impaired postural stability (PS) and risk of fall in non-specific low back pain (LBP), evidence is relatively scarce in terms of discogenic LBP or in persons with degenerative disc disorders of the lumbar spine. OBJECTIVE: To determine the differences in terms of PS, fall risk and sensory integration of balance in persons with discogenic LBP as compared to healthy controls. METHODS: A cross sectional comparative study was conducted on 60 participants, out of which 30 had discogenic LBP and 30 were healthy controls. The variables of interest included PS, fall risk score (FRS) and clinical test of sensory integration of balance (CTSIB), and the data was collected using Biodex Balance SystemTM SD, with higher scores signifying poorer outcomes. RESULTS: Persons with discogenic LBP scored significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher in terms of overall PS index [Mean difference = 2.33 (95% CI 1.38, 3.28)], anteroposterior PS index [Mean difference = 1.87 (95% CI 0.84, 2.90)] and mediolateral PS index [Mean difference = 0.82 (95% CI 0.43, 1.21)], FRS [Mean difference = 2.92 (95% CI 2.36, 4.8)] and CTSIB [Mean difference = 1.67 (95% CI 1.28, 2.06)] as compared to healthy controls. Both healthy controls and persons with discogenic LBP revealed higher anteroposterior postural stability index as compared to mediolateral postural stability index (p &lt; 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Persons with discogenic low back pain exhibit greater risk of fall and poorer postural stability and sensory integration of balance as compared to healthy controls. It is suggested that fall risk, postural stability and sensory integration of balance should be considered as outcome measures in clinical management of such patients.

Efficacy of balance training on balance performance in obese patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy

Background: The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of balance training on balance performance in obese patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy. Study Design: in the current study the participants will be selected from the police hospital Subjects &amp; Methods: Sixty patients who had sleeve gastrectomy were randomly divided into two equal groups. interventions. Group (A) received a program of balance training programs Periodic exercises were frequently performed for 45 min without rest among workouts with routine physical therapy program post abdominal surgical (breathing exercise, cough, and regular exercise). for three days per week for four weeks. Group (B): who takes sleeve gastrectomy with routine physical therapy program post abdominal surgery (breathing exercise, cough, and regular exercise). Main outcome measure: visual analog scale (VAS) and the Biodex Balance System (BBS). Results: Comparing both groups post- program revealed a statistically significant reduction in pain and increase in the Medio lateral stability index, anteroposterior stability index, and overall stability index in standing in both legs, on standing in RT leg only and standing in the left leg only. . All statistical measures were carried out using the statistical program for social sciences (SPSS) with version 27.

Combined effect of orthotic intervention and conventional exercise training on balance and gait performance in cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThis study aimed to examine the combined effect of orthotic intervention and conventional therapeutic exercise training on balance and gait performance in children with cerebral palsy. This study was a randomized control trial. Forty children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy of both genders with ages ranged from 12 to 16 years were included. Participants in the control and study groups received a conventional therapeutic exercise training program for two 2 h ours per session. The treatment program was conducted three sessions per week, for twelve 12 successive weeks. Children in the study group additionally wore TheraTogs orthotic undergarment with the strapping system. Pediatric Balance Scale score and postural stability indices (overall, anteroposterior , and mediolateral) evaluated by the Biodex Balance System were assessed (in both groups) at baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. The changes of step length, gait cycle time, cadence, and velocity were also measured by an electronic walkway.ResultsChildren in the study group showed significant improvements in the scores of all the measured variables post-treatment compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The P -values for overall, anteroposterior and mediolateral postural stability indices were 0.011, 0.014, and 0.021, respectively. The P -values for Pediatric Balance Scale score, step length, gait cycle time, cadence, and velocity were 0.001, 0.023, 0.041, 0.011, and 0.013 respectively.ConclusionsConventional therapeutic exercise training combined with orthotic intervention were more effective in improving balance and gait performance in children with dyskinetic cerebral palsy.Trial registrationThe ClinicalTrial.gov PRS (NCT04990193).Registered 4 August 2021 - Retrospectively registered.

Effect of plantar vibration on static and dynamic balance in stroke patients: a randomised controlled study

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of local vibration applied to the plantar region of the foot on static and dynamic balance in stroke patients. DesignRandomised, controlled trial. SettingInpatient. ParticipantsThirty patients with stroke were randomised equally to the vibration and control groups. InterventionThe control group underwent conventional physical therapy (CPT) for 4 weeks. The vibration group underwent local vibration therapy at a frequency of 80Hz and CPT for 4 weeks. Outcome measuresThe primary outcome measure was the Overall Stability Index (OSI). The secondary outcome measures were: the Anteroposterior Stability Index, Mediolateral Stability Index, fall risk, Berg Balance Scale, Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) to assess balance; the Trunk Impairment Scale to measure trunk function; and the 10-m Walk Test (10MWT) to measure walking speed. ResultsParticipants receiving plantar vibration experienced greater improvements in static and dynamic balance assessments compared with participants in the control group. The mean change in OSI score between baseline and 4 weeks was 0.8 [standard deviation (SD) 0.8] for the vibration group and 0.02 (SD 0.6) for the control group [mean difference 0.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.1 to 0.7]. The median change in fall risk score was 0.7 [interquartile range (IQR) 0.4 to 1.4] for the vibration group and 0.1 (IQR -0.1 to 0.6) for the control group (median difference 0.5, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.7). The median change in TUG time was 4 (IQR 1 to 7) seconds for the vibration group and 4 (IQR 0 to 2) seconds for the control group (median difference 2.5, 95% CI 1.5 to 3.5). ConclusionThese findings suggest that plantar vibration is useful in stroke patients. Plantar vibration can be applied to support CPT. Clinicaltrials.gov registration numberNCT03784768.

A 10-Week Program of Combined Hippotherapy and Scroth's Exercises Improves Balance and Postural Asymmetries in Adolescence Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Introduction: The most frequent type of spine abnormality throughout adolescence was adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Hippotherapy improved posture, balance and gait of different musculoskeletal conditions. Therefore, this study aims to see how hippotherapy combined with Schroth exercises affected postural asymmetry and dynamic balance in AIS compared to traditional physiotherapy (Schroth exercises) alone. Materials and methods: In this randomized controlled trial, fifty-two patients with AIS (10–18 years, 37 girls and 15 boys) participated. They were arbitrarily allocated into two groups: experimental (19 female/8 male; aged 14.74 ± 1.79 years; Cobb angle 18.59 ± 2.66 degrees) and control (18 female/7 male; aged 15.04 ± 1.81 years; Cobb angle 19.32 ± 2.69 degrees) groups. Both groups received Schroth exercises for 10 weeks, three days/week. The experimental group additionally received hippotherapy training. Pre-treatment and post-treatment assessment for the scoliotic, kyphotic angle, pelvic obliquity, pelvic torsion and vertical spinal rotation and the anteroposterior, mediolateral and overall stability indices were assessed using the formetric system 4D and Biodex Balance System, respectively. Results: After intervention, both groups illustrated significant improvements in all examined variables (p < 0.05). The experimental group illustrated significant improvements in scoliotic angle, kyphotic angle, pelvic obliquity, pelvic torsion and vertical spinal rotation and the stability indices compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In adolescence idiopathic scoliosis, hippotherapy training combined with Schroth exercises improves posture asymmetry and balancing ability more effectively than Schroth exercises alone.

Moderate effect of ankle foot orthosis versus ground reaction ankle foot orthosis on balance in children with diplegic cerebral palsy.

The children with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) commonly have abnormal alignment of lower extremities affecting their abilities of keeping balance. Orthoses are one of the many approaches that can be prescribed to improve balance and walking in diplegic children. This study was conducted to assess the moderate effect of solid ankle foot orthosis (AFO) vs. the ground reaction ankle foot orthosis (GRAFO) on balance in children with diplegic CP. A randomized controlled trial. Thirty children with spastic diplegic CP from both genders participated in this study; their ages were between 6 and 9 years. They were divided randomly into two study groups of equal numbers; the first study group A received the regular physical therapy program besides wearing the AFO for successive three months. The second study group B received the regular physical therapy program besides wearing the GRAFO for successive 3 months. All childrens' balance was evaluated before starting the treatment program and after 3 months by using the Biodex balance system (anteroposterior and mediolateral stability indices). There were significant improvement of all stability indices in both groups (P < 0.05), with significant difference between groups when comparing post-treatment mean values of the measured indices in favor to study group B (P < 0.05). The GRAFO achieved more balance control in children with spastic diplegic CP compared with solid AFO.

Influence of a smartphone use on dynamic balance in healthy adolescents

PurposeThe aim of the study was to detect the immediate and late effects of using a smartphone for 30 consecutive minutes on dynamic balance in healthy adolescents.MethodsOverall, 96 healthy adolescents of both genders, aged 15–18 years, were randomly assigned to the study and the control group. The subjects in the study group used a smartphone for 30 consecutive minutes; smartphones were not allowed in the control group. A Biodex system was used to assess the dynamic balance initially, as well as immediately after and 1 hour after the intervention.ResultsMANOVA test revealed that there were statistically significant differences in the overall stability index and anteroposterior stability index (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.002 and 0.04, respectively), with a statistically insignificant difference in the mediolateral stability index (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.46) within the study group. Significant differences were observed in the immediate measurements of both overall stability index and anteroposterior stability index (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.0001 and 0.03, respectively), while statistically insignificant differences were noted in the measurements of mediolateral stability index between the groups.ConclusionsThe dynamic balance decreased after 30 consecutive minutes of smartphone use, so care should be taken to avoid accidents while walking or performing other daily activities. This effect, however, disappeared 1 hour later.

The evaluation of static and dynamic postural balance in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis

BackgroundTo investigate how postural balance is affected by thoracic hyperkyphosis compared to healthy children and elucidate the relationship between balance and strength and tightness. MethodsA cross-sectional analysis using standardized measures to identify balance function in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis (n = 31) and compare age-matched healthy children (n = 31). Primary outcome measurements were performed for the static and dynamic balance with the biodex balance system and limits of stability with the functional reach test. Secondary outcome measurements were strength with a hand-held dynamometry, tightness with the length test of pectoralis minor and hip flexors, and the sit-reach test for hamstrings. Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare the difference between the groups. Spearman's correlation was used to analyze the possible correlations between balance and strength and tightness. ResultsA significant difference was found between the groups for static balance with eyes closed (except double-leg stance anteroposterior stability index) and for the forward reach distance (p < 0.05). Strength and tightness were significantly different in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis than in healthy children (p < 0.05). Also, it was found that muscle strength of trunk extension and hip abduction and tightness of hip flexors and hamstring were factors associated with static balance with eyes closed (r > 0.10, p < 0.05). ConclusionsStatic balance in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis is affected when visual input is particularly removed, and static balance with eyes closed is correlated with changed strength and tightness in some of the trunk and lower extremity muscles.

Postural stability changes after contrast immersion in ankle sprain (Randomized Controlled Trial)

Background: cryotherapy application is commonly used as a physical therapy tools with many advantages. Although often used, its impact on the postural balance is not well-known. Objectives: To investigate the effectiveness of contrast water immersion therapy on ankle posture stability in patients with lateral ankle sprain Methods: Thirty patients, grade I and II lateral ankle sprain their age ranged between 18 to 35 years they were randomly divided into two equal groups using coin flip. Interventions. Group (A) received selected physical therapy program for ankle sprain patients. Group (B) Received contrast water immersion for 16 min in addition to the same selected physical therapy program received by group (A) for 4 weeks. For both groups Biodex balance system was used to measure static and dynamic balance before and after treatment period. Results: analysis of data using ANOVA test, show that there was significant decrease in Overall stability index , Mediolateral stability index and Anteroposterior stability index of the study group compared with that of the control group post-treatment Conclusion: It’s concluded that contrast water immersion for fifteen minutes in patients with lateral ankle sprain had significant effect on static balance. Keywords: Static balance, contrast water immersion, ankle sprain.