Balance Master Research Articles

Functional neural substrates of Parkinson’s disease and potential underpinnings of acute responses to acupuncture stimulation

Parkinson’s disease is a heterogenous neurodegenerative disorder with a wide variety of motor and non-motor symptoms. This study used resting-state fMRI to identify the neural substrates of PD and explore the acute neural response to acupuncture stimulation in 74 participants (50 patients with PD and 24 healthy controls). All participants with PD were evaluated for the severity of symptoms using the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale and Balance Master. The z-transformed fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation analysis showed significant differences between the PD and healthy controls in the cerebellar regions, which are thought to play a crucial role in PD pathology. Subsequently, seed-based functional connectivity of the cerebellum with the frontal, parietal, and limbic regions was identified as a potential diagnostic marker for PD. In addition, spontaneous neural activity in the precentral gyrus and thalamus was significantly associated with the severity of PD symptoms. Neural activity in the precentral gyrus, precuneus, and superior temporal gyrus showed a significant correlation with Balance Master indicators. Finally, acupuncture stimulation at GB34 significantly reduced the activity of the occipital regions in patients with PD, but this effect was not observed in healthy controls. The mixed-effects analysis revealed an interaction effects between group and acupuncture stimulation, suggesting that the modulatory effects of acupuncture could differ depending on disease status. Therefore, this study suggests the neural substrates of PD and potential underpinnings of acute neural response to acupuncture stimulation.

Effect of Backward Walking on Treadmill with Inclination in Individuals with Forward Head Posture: A Comparative Study

Abstract Background: Forward head posture (FHP) is one of the most common postural abnormalities found in undergraduates (18–30 years), with a prevalence rate of 73%. If the cervical spine is held in a protracted position, such as hyperextension of the upper cervical spine (C1-C3) and flexion of the lower cervical spine (C4-C7), it can cause changes in head posture, eventually leading to FHP. Aims: This study aimed to determine the effect of backward walking (BW) on the surface and on treadmill with inclination in individuals with FHP. Objectives: The objective of this study was to compare the effect of surface BW and BW on treadmill with inclination on the craniovertebral angle (CVA) and gait outcomes in individuals with FHP. Materials and Methods: Sixty-two participants were recruited and randomly assigned to the surface BW group (n = 31) and BW on treadmill with inclination (n = 31). Participants fulfilled the pre- and postassessment with a 2 weeks (three times per week) intervention of BW in conjunction with conventional exercises. The CVA was measured using Markus Bader ruler software. Gait outcomes were assessed using Neurocom Balance Master, walk across component was selected. Results: The present study implemented statistical tests such as paired t-test and unpaired t-test for the recorded data. Conclusion: BW has shown a significant difference in the CVA and some components of gait outcomes in within the group analysis, whereas in between the group analysis, there is a significant difference in some gait outcomes.

Correlation of postural stability with pain, disability and quality of life among patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction- A cross-sectional study

Context-Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction accounts for altered postural stability which can cause a continuously intense pain level and range of disabilities. AimTo investigate the correlation of postural stability with pain, disability & QOL among sufferers of sacroiliac joint dysfunction. SettingThis cross-sectional research was undertaken at Rehabilitation Centre, Jamia Hamdard University. MethodA total of fifty participants were recruited using sample of convenience according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. After obtaining informed consent, three pain provocative tests and one motion palpation test were used to determine sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Humac balance master system (CSMi USB powered, Stoughton, USA), Visual analogue scale (VAS), modified Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) & WHO QOL-BREF (US version) were used to assess postural stability, pain, disability & Quality of life (QOL) respectively. Data analysis was done for correlation by SPSS version 24.0. ResultStrong positive correlations were found between reaction time, VAS (r = 0.791) and modified ODI score (r = 0.576) and weak positive correlations between eyes closed solid surface (ECSS) component of modified clinical test of sensory interaction & balance with VAS (r = 0.333) and with modified ODI score (r = 0.304) and eyes open foam surface (EOFS) component with environmental component of QOL (r = 0.287). There were negative correlations between reaction time, physical health (r = −0.413), psychological health (r = −0.375), social relations (r = −0.305), and environment (r = −0.379) parameters of QOL. ConclusionAccording to the findings of the study, there were positive correlations of reaction time with pain and disability and negative correlations with QOL. Awareness of clinicians regarding the altered postural stability can help in improvising the assessment and treatment protocols for patients of SI dysfunction.

Features Of The Relationship Between Postural Balance Indicators And Heart Rate Variability In Elderly Women With Falls Syndrome

Objective — The goal of our study was to establish the relationship between the postural balance and heart rate variability (HRV) in elderly women with the falls syndrome. Material and Methods — The study was conducted on120 women aged 60-74 YO. The study group included women with the falls syndrome who experienced two or more falls during the year (n=60), while the comparison group consisted of women without falls (n=60). Postural balance assessment was performed via the computerized stabilometric complex Balance Master®, NeuroCom, Natus Medical, USA. The state of autonomic nervous system was assessed by cardiointervalography using the VNS-Spectrum computer appliance (Neurosoft, Russia). Results — The matrix of intersystem correlations between indicators of postural balance and HRV in women with the falls syndrome was characterized by a small number of statistically significant correlations (6.25%). Same was true for the control group (10.85%). The correlations were noted in the Sit to Stand, Tandem Walk, and Step Up and Over tests in elderly women with the falls syndrome, while in the control group, they were observed only in the Step Quick Turn test. Conclusion — Features of the relationship between postural balance indicators and HRV in elderly women with the falls syndrome were characterized by a worse coordination of intersystem interactions of HRV indicators with indicators of the performance quality of complex motor acts and power indicators of postural balance, as compared with the elderly women without falls syndrome.

The Convergent Validity of the SWAY Balance Application to Assess Postural Stability in Military Cadets Recovering from Concussion.

Concussions are often accompanied by balance disturbances. Clinically accurate evaluation systems are often expensive, large, and inaccessible to most clinicians. The Sway Balance Mobile Application (SWAY) is an accessible method to quantify balance changes. To determine the known groups and convergent validity of the SWAY to assess balance after a concussion. Case-Control Study. Twenty participants with acute concussion and twenty controls were recruited. At initial, one-week, and final return to activity (RTA) evaluations, all participants completed the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT-5), and balance control measured by SWAY mBESS and NeuroCom Balance Master Sensory Organization Test (SOT). Mixed model ANOVAs were used to detect differences in SWAY mBESS and NeuroCom SOT scores with time (initial, one-week, final RTA) as the within-subjects factor and group (concussed, healthy) as the between-subjects factor. Spearman's Rho correlations explored the associations between NeuroCom SOT scores, SWAY scores, SCAT-5 symptom scores, and time in days to final RTA. The sampled population was predominantly male and age (20 ± 1), and BMI differences were insignificant between groups. The SWAY did not detect differences between healthy and concussed participants and did not detect change over time [F(2,40) = .114, p = 0.89; F(2,40)= .276, p =0.60]. When assessing the relationship between the SWAY and the SOT, no correlation was found at any time point (r = -0.317 to -0.062, p > 0.05). Time to RTA demonstrated a moderate correlation with both SCAT-5 symptom severity score (r = .693, p < 0.01) and SCAT-5 total symptom score (r = .611, p < 0.01) at the one-week follow-up. The SWAY mBESS does not appear to be a valid balance assessment for the concussed patient. The SWAY mBESS in patients with concussion failed to demonstrate convergent validity and did not demonstrate an ability to validate known groups. When assessing the time to final RTA, the one-week post-initial assessment SCAT-5 symptom severity and total scores may help determine the length of recovery in this population. Level 3.

The decline in postural balance has a negative impact on the performance of functional tasks in individuals with Parkinson's Disease

IntroductionAn accurate assessment of balance problems is critical for decreasing the risk of falling in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Reliable diagnostic tools such as Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) are not feasible for the clinical setting. Therefore, the present study's aim was to assess the correlation between the clinical Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and CDP. Methods20 male older adults with Parkinson's Disease (PD) were included in this study. Participants first executed the Sit-To-Stand (STS), Step/Quick turn (SQT), and Step Up and Over (SUO) tests on a Balance Master® force platform, followed by a clinical balance evaluation using the BESTest. ResultsFour outcomes of the CDP were negatively correlated with one or more BESTest domains or total BESTest score: STS sway velocity was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment (p = 0.02) and sensory orientation (p = 0.01) domains. SQT turn time was negatively correlated with biomechanical restriction (for turns to the left, p = 0.01, and right, p = 0.03, respectively), postural response (p = 0.01, p = 0.01), dynamic balance during gait (p = 0.007, p = 0.001), and total score (p = 0.02, p = 0.01). Step over time to the right in SUP was negatively correlated with the limits of the stability domain (p = 0.002) and total BESTest score (p = 0.020). SUO impact index was negatively correlated with the anticipatory postural adjustment domain (p = 0.01). ConclusionThis study shows that several BESTest domains are significantly correlated with CDP outcomes, demonstrating that the BESTest can be used as a more clinically feasible alternative for computerized posturography, without loss of information.

Ab. No. 70 Efficacy of Perturbation Training on Balance and Function in Older Individuals- An Experimental Study

Introduction: Aging involves decline in visual, vestibular and proprioceptive acuity associated with functional limitations and reduced motor function, disturbing balance and increasing risk of fall. The study evaluates the effect of perturbation training in older individuals with mild to moderate risk of fall and its effect on postural stability and balance. Perturbation training has been advocated as an effective intervention for re-educating proprioception and restoring normal neuromuscular coordination. Older adults can quickly adapt to large postural perturbations, altering their biomechanics and preventing falls. Methods: An experimental trial recruited 30 older individuals (65-85 years) with mild to moderate fall risk through purposive sampling. Participants underwent Perturbation Training with tilt-board and conventional balance exercises thrice weekly for four weeks (12 sessions). Modified-CTSIB test on NeuroCom Balance Master® and Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test were taken at baseline and post-completion. Homogeneity of samples was assessed using Shapiro-Wilk’s Test of Normality. Dependent sample t-tests were employed to analyze group data, with means and standard deviations indicating statistical differences in pre and post outcome measures at 95% confidence interval. Results: Pre and post measures on TUG test and M-CTSIB test on NeuroCom Balance Master® shows statistically significant improvement in TUG values(p&lt;0.0001*) and COG sway velocity in all conditions except on Firm surface with eyes open, with FIEO(p&lt;0.1208), FIEC(p&lt;0.0011*), FOEO(P&lt;0.0013*), FOEC(p&lt;0.0001*) and Composite COG sway velocity(p&lt;0.0001*). Conclusion: Perturbation training coupled with conventional balance exercises, showed to be effective intervention to improve balance and postural control in older individuals. The study lacked follow-up, leaving room for future studies into continuity of exercises and retention of its effects. Implications: Given the effectiveness, the study suggests integrating perturbation training in geriatric rehabilitation protocol to enhance physical function, diminish fear of falling, and boost fall-related self-efficacy.

Postural balance and functional mobility in relation to BMI and body composition among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionThis study aimed to compare different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories, body composition parameters, postural balance, and functional mobility among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences; and examine the relationship between BMI and body composition with postural balance and functional mobility among female students at the college of applied medical sciences. Materials and methodsFemale students, aged 18‒25 years old. They were subdivided into four groups according to their BMI category: underweight, normal, overweight, or obese, with n = 20 participants in each group. A Bioelectrical Impedance Human Body Analyzer (BIA) was used to assess the following body composition parameters: Fat Percentage (FATP), fat mass, muscle mass, and Total Body Water (TBW). A NeuroCom Balance Master was used to assess postural balance and functional mobility. A Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was employed to assess functional mobility. All data were analyzed using SPSS. ResultsParticipants’ ages and heights were matched (p > 0.05). However, there were variables that were statistically significantly higher in terms of weight, BMI and body composition, including FATP, fat mass, muscle mass, and TBW (p = 0.000), among the obese group. Moreover, postural balance was lower among the obese group. There was a significant relationship between BMI and body composition variables in respect of postural balance but not in relation to functional mobility. ConclusionPostural instability but not functional mobility was related to higher BMI and body composition values among the study groups.

The stepping test, and infrared depth sensor, provide reliable measures of balance in community-dwelling older adults.

[Purpose] The purpose was to examine relationships between variables characterizing the 20-second stepping test movement pattern, assessed with an infrared depth sensor (KinectTM), and measurements of dynamic and static balance. [Participants and Methods] A total of 27 independent-living, older adults (7 males and 20 females) participated in this study. For each participant, the stepping test total movement distance, movement displacement, knee movement distance, and step number were calculated from Kinect closed joint-point coordinate data. Dynamic and static balance were assessed using a NeuroCom Balance Master Platform system. [Results] The stepping test total movement distance had a moderate negative correlation with endpoint excursion (r=-0.469) and a moderate positive correlation with total movement distance, corrected for knee movement distance (r=0.557). Step numbers had a moderate negative correlation with stepping test total movement distance (r=-0.667) and total movement distance, corrected for knee movement distance (r=-0.531). Division into high and low-balance sub-groups (based on endpoint excursion or sway velocity scores) revealed that stepping test total movement distances and movement displacements were greater, and step numbers were fewer, in low balance groups. [Conclusion] The stepping test, combined with a KinectTM-assessed movement pattern provides a simple, objective, reliable means for assessing balance in community-dwelling, independent-living older adults.

Dual task impact on functional mobility and interaction of functional level and balance in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

BackgroundDystrophin, a protein crucial for various brain regions governing higher-order functions like learning and memory is notably absent in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This absence of dystrophin in the brain is believed to underlie cognitive challenges in DMD. Cognitive and motor challenges observed in DMD could potentially hinder the execution of dual tasks. Research questionIs there a significant correlation between dual-task performance, functional mobility, and balance in children with DMD? MethodThe study included 28 participants (14 DMD, 14 typical development). Timed Up and Go (TUG) test results were recorded for single and dual-task conditions (motor-motor, cognitive-motor). Functional level was assessed using Motor Function Measurement-32 (MFM-32), Brooke Upper Extremity Scale, and Vignos Scale. Balance was evaluated using Balance Master System and Pediatric Functional Reach Test (PFRT). ResultsSignificant differences in TUG test scores across conditions were observed in both DMD and typical development groups (p < 0.05). Children with DMD exhibited longer completion times compared to typical development children (p < 0.05). Among children with DMD, there was a significant correlation between TUG scores in different task conditions and balance assessment (p < 0.05, r = 0.571 to −0.819). Lower MFM-32 scores in DMD children were correlated with worse TUG performance across conditions (p < 0.05, r = 0.586 to −0.868). SignifianceThis study sheds light on the multifaceted nature of dual-tasking challenges in individuals with DMD, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the implications for rehabilitation strategies.

Relationship Between Balance and Vitamin D in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study with HUR BTG4 Balance Master System®

Relationship Between Balance and Vitamin D in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study with HUR BTG4 Balance Master System®

Time of day and athlete status effects on the modified clinical test of sensory integration and balance (mCTSIB) and stability evaluation test (SET)

BackgroundConcussions or musculoskeletal injuries may impair postural control, which is one diagnostic to help determine return-to-activity decisions. Postural control may be affected by diurnal rhythm. Research questionDoes time of day influence postural control as measured by two Neurocom Balance Master diagnostic protocols, the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB) and the Stability Evaluation Test (SET)? MethodsFollowing Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, consented participants completed the SET and mCTSIB twice: between 0700 and 1000; and between 1600 and 1900. We randomized and balanced testing order. Familiarization trials were completed for the mCTSIB and SET. Assessments were completed in a controlled laboratory environment. We instructed participants to get a normal night’s sleep prior to testing and refrain from caffeine use and exhaustive exercise on the day of testing. Sixty-nine participants (48 female, 21 male: age = 21.42±2.56 years, height = 168.20±7.53 cm, mass = 72.05±16.60 kg) completed the study. Thirty-one of the participants were National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes (NAIA) student-athletes from the sports of baseball, soccer and softball. Average postural sway velocity was measured and compared by time of day for each of the balance conditions in the mCTSIB and SET protocols. ResultsAccording to repeated measures ANOVA, there were no significant postural sway velocity main effects by time of day for any of the balance conditions. We found significant postural sway main effects by foam, stance and eyes. We also noted significant ANOVA between participants’ differences for athlete status, but not for sex. SignificanceThese results inform practitioners about the importance of controlling time-of-day between baseline and post-injury testing, which may allow for more flexible, accurate and reliable diagnosis and return-to-activity decisions. Athletes displayed better static postural control, possibly warranting different normative values for diagnostic comparison.

Combined treatment of muscle tension dysphonia: voice therapy with instrumental postural rehabilitation.

This investigation aimed to propose a new rehabilitation technique that combines voice exercises and instrumental postural rehabilitation for patients with muscle tension dysphonia (MTD). We enrolled nine dysphonic patients (8 women and 1 man, aged 22-55 years). Voice assessment included strobovideolaryngoscopy, Maximum Phonation Time (MPT), perceptual evaluation by GRBAS scale and patient's self-rating by Italian version of the Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Vestibular function was evaluated by the Bed Side Examination and Video Head Impulse test (VHIT). Postural control was evaluated by Dynamic Posturography (DP) using the Sensory Organization Test (SOT) and analysing the Equilibrium Score (ES) and balance subsystems (somatosensorial, visual, vestibular). All cases underwent different types of voice exercises combined with balance training based on NeuroCom Balance Master Protocols, once a week for six 35-minutes sessions. After therapy, an improvement in MPT, VHI, GRBAS scores and endoscopic laryngeal features was obtained. DP results at baseline were normal and after therapy we showed a slight improvement of ES (somatosensorial and visual components). A combined rehabilitation technique for MTD, by improving the attention to postural control, allows for significant improvement in vocal symptoms.

Does Phase of the Menstrual Cycle Affect Balance and Postural Control?

. The aim of the study is to examine the effects of menstrual cycle phases (MCP) on balance and postural control. The study was carried out with 63 volunteer women. Digital ovulation kits and, a Menstrual Cycle Regularity Questionnaire (MCRQ) to detect menstrual cycle regularity and duration, Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire (PMSQ) to question the presence of premenstrual syndrome, Menstruation Attitude Questionnaire (MAQ) to assess menstrual attitudes, International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) to question physical activity level was used. Balance and postural oscillation were evaluated with Balance Master balance and performance test device and Tekscan MatScan™ Pressure Mat System, respectively. All evaluations were repeated twice, in the preovulatory period and the postovulatory period. When the evaluations of the preovulatory period and the postovulatory period were compared, there was %3 increase in the percent weight-bearing of the non-dominant extremity (p = 0.01) and %2.5 decrease in the percent weight-bearing of the dominant limb in the postovulatory period (p = 0.01). %8 increase in functional reach distances was detected in the postovulatory period (p < 0.01). It was determined that there was %7.4 decrease in the oscillation rate of the center of gravity in the static stance with eyes open and %9 decrease in the static stance with eyes closed in the postovulatory period (p = 0.35, p = 0.18, respectively). It has been determined that the balance and postural control of young women are negatively affected in the preovulatory period and the function improved from the preovulatory period to the postovulatory period.

The Effects of Tele-Yoga in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective: This randomized controlled trial aimed at investigating the effects of tele-yoga on physical function, disease activity, spinal mobility, flexibility, muscular endurance, exercise capacity, balance, sleep quality, stress, depression, anxiety, quality of life (QoL), and mindfulness in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods: Sixty patients with AS were randomly assigned to the tele-yoga group (TYG) or wait-list control group (CG). In addition to their medical treatments, TYG participants attended online yoga classes three times per week for 8 weeks. The CG continued their standard medical treatment. Data were collected at baseline and after 8 weeks. The primary outcome measure was physical function as assessed by the Bath AS Functional Index (BASFI). Secondary outcome measures included the Bath AS Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath AS Patient Global Score (BAS-G), Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society Health Index (ASAS HI), Bath AS Metrology Index (BASMI), sit-and-reach test, sit-up test, push-up test, incremental shuttle walk test, Balance Master test, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS). Results: Compared with the CG (n = 27), participants in the TYG (n = 28) demonstrated significant improvements in BASFI (p = 0.001). The TYG also showed significant improvements in disease activity, spinal mobility, flexibility, muscular endurance, balance, sleep quality, stress, depression, and QoL compared with the CG (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Tele-yoga practice appears to be a safe and promising intervention for patients with AS and should be considered as a part of holistic disease management because of its potential physical and psychological benefits. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04803383.

NZ-RugbyHealth Study: Current Postural Control Ability of Former Rugby Union and Non-contact Sport Players.

Players in contact sports frequently experience mild traumatic brain (concussion) injuries (TBI). While there are known disruptions to balance following acute head trauma, it is uncertain if sport-related concussion injuries have a lasting impact on postural control. To assess postural control in retired rugby players in comparison to retired non-contact sport players, and to evaluate any association with self-reported sport-related concussion history. Using a cross-sectional design, 75 players in the NZ-RugbyHealth study from three sports groups (44 ± 8years; 24 elite rugby, 30 community rugby, 21 non-contact sport) took part in this study. The SMART EquiTest® Balance Master was used to assess participant's ability to make effective use of visual, vestibular and proprioceptive information using standardised tests. Postural sway was also quantified using centre of pressure (COP) path length. The relationship among sports group, sport-related concussion history and postural control was evaluated using mixed regression models while controlling for age and body mass index. Limited significant differences in balance metrics were found between the sports groups. A statistically significant (p < 0.001) interaction indicated a relationship between COP path length and sport-related concussion history in the most challenging balance condition, such that path length increased as the number of previous sport-related concussions increased. There was some evidence for a relationship between sport-related concussion recurrence in sports players and postural stability in challenging balance conditions. There was no evidence of impaired balance ability in retired rugby players compared with non-contact sport athletes.

Sensory Integration for Postural Control in Rheumatoid Arthritis Revealed by Computerized Dynamic Posturography

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that impairs mobility. How does sensory information influence postural responses in people with RA? The aim of this study was to evaluate the postural control of people with RA during a sensory organization test, comparing how sensory information influences postural responses in people with rheumatoid arthritis compared with healthy people. Participants were 28 women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA group) and 16 women without any rheumatoid disease (Control group CG). The Sensory Organization Test (SOT) was performed on a Smart Balance Master® (NeuroCom International, Inc., Clackamas, OR, USA) and center of pressure (COP) was measured. SOT conditions: SOT1 (eyes open, fixed support surface and surround; SOT2) eyes closed, fixed support surface and surround; and SOT5) eyes closed, sway-referenced support surface, and fixed surround. To compare the demographic and clinical aspects between groups, independent t-test or Mann-Whitney's U-test were used. Differences were found between groups. Between SOT conditions, for CG and RA, COP was faster for SOT-5 than SOT-1, while SOT-1 and SOT-2 presented similar COP velocity. For SOT-2 and SOT-5, COP was larger for the RA group. For both groups, SOT-1 presented the smallest COP, and SOT-5 showed the largest COP.

Comparing the Effect of Flat and High-Heel Footwears on Tandem Walk and Step-up/Over Test in Females by Using a Neurocom Balance Master

Abstract Aims: Footwear plays an important role in day-to-day life; their utilitarian purpose has been undermined by fashion. Furthermore, fashion has frequently dictated numerous design details, such as whether shoes have high heels or flat heels. The aim of this study is to compare female users who wear flat footwear vs. high heels using a dynamic weight-bearing activity test with a Neurocom Balance Master. Materials and Methods: Fifty-three females were screened, out of which 30 females participated in this study, 15 each divided into two groups. According to the inclusion criteria, 5 cm heel height and 0 cm flat heel users on a daily basis were included. Group A included high-heel footwear users and Group B included flat footwear users; they performed the tandem walk test and step-up/over test to measure their balance in dynamic activities on the Neurocom Balance Master. Results: Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilkinson test. The independent t test was used to find out the difference between the groups. Experimental results showed that compared with flat footwear users, high-heel footwear users show imbalance in the tandem walk test. Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, there is a significant difference between high-heel female users and flat footwear female users in the tandem walk test, but no significant difference between high-heel female users and flat footwear female users in the step-up/over test.

Effectiveness of cerebellar vermis intermittent theta-burst stimulation in improving trunk control and balance function for patients with subacute stroke: a randomised controlled trial protocol

IntroductionBalance impairments frequently occur after stroke. Achieving effective core trunk stability is the key to improving balance ability. However, there is still a lack of advanced well-defined rehabilitation protocols for...

Characterizing The State Of Heart Rate Autonomic Regulation And EEG In Elderly Women With Falls Syndrome

Objective — The goal of our study was to evaluate the contribution of the central and autonomic nervous systems to the maintenance of postural balance in the elderly. Material and Methods ― This study included 120 healthy women 60-74 YO living in the community. They were distributed among two subgroups: (1) fallers (n=60) and (2) non-fallers (n=60). Fallers had falls in the past 12 months, while non-fallers had none. Walk tests were performed using Balance Master® posturography machine (NeuroCom, Natus, USA). The state of the central nervous system was assessed by Geodesic 300 EEG system (GSN; Electrical Geodesics, Inc.; Eugene, OR, USA). The state of the autonomic nervous system was assessed by the VNS-Spectrum (Neurosoft, Russia) via cardiointervalography. Results ― In Sit to Stand test, the postural sway velocity was higher (p=0.047) and the walking speed (p=0.008) in Tandem Walk test was lower in fallers, compared with non-fallers. The results of the Step Quick Turn test showed that the movement times of the left and right legs were longer for the fallers vs. non-fallers (p=0.044 and p=0.036, respectively), and postural sway values during turning left or right were higher in fallers as well (p=0.001 and p=0.003, correspondingly). At the same time, Step Up and Over test revealed that lift-up index values were higher in fallers vs. non-fallers (p=0.016). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the state of the autonomic nervous system. The absolute spectral power of the EEG was lower in the frontal region of the right hemisphere in the alpha and beta EEG bands in the study group, compared with the control. Conclusion ― A deterioration in the quality of performing complex motor actions and a decrease in postural control in elderly women with falls syndrome were which may have caused their postural instability. Our results confirmed the need for early assessment of the dynamic components of postural control to prevent the development of falls as a geriatric syndrome.