Dynamic Balance Parameters Research Articles

Acute Effects of Myofascial Release on Foot Mobility and Performance in Basketball Players with Hypomobile Feet—A Randomized Controlled Trial

Hypomobility in the foot structure causes functional limitations. These functional limitations affect sportive performance negatively, especially in basketball, where dynamic movements such as jumping and sudden changes in direction are very intense. In this context, reducing hypomobility is important in terms of eliminating performance disorders caused by hypomobility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of myofascial release on foot mobility and sportive performance in basketball players with hypomobile feet. This study was designed as randomized controlled experimental research. Twenty-four male basketball players (23.46 ± 2.81 years) participated in this study. The athletes were first subjected to foot mobility, balance and vertical jump tests. Then, the participants were divided into two groups: myofascial release (MR) and placebo myofascial release (PMR). Myofascial release (Graston technique) was applied to the MR group, and placebo myofascial release was applied to the PMR group. After application, foot mobility and performance measurements were performed again, and the results were analyzed. It was observed that there was a significant difference in right foot mobility (d = 4), left foot mobility (d = 6), vertical jump (d = 1.13) and dynamic balance (d = 1.03) parameters after application in the MR group. It was also determined that the acute effects of the intervention on foot mobility lasted for at least two hours (p < 0.001). There was no change in any parameter after application in the PMR group (p > 0.05). The results of this study show that a single session of myofascial release applied to the plantar sole temporarily increased foot mobility and improved vertical jump and dynamic balance performance in basketball players with chronic hypomobility.

Establishing the Relationship of Static And Dynamic Balance Parameters in 10-12-Year-Old Soccer Players

The aim of the paper is to establish the relationship between static and dynamic balance parameters in young soccer players aged 10-12. Methods. An exploratory study was organized with a group of 10-12-year-old soccer players of the School Sports Club no. 1 of Bucharest. The bipedal balance was assessed using the Sensamove Mini Board. The relationship of the static and dynamic balance parameters was determined with the Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Tests applied: Test 1 - static balance (SB), Test 2 – lateral dynamic balance (LDB), and Test 3 - vertical dynamic balance (VDB). Measured parameters: performance, front and back inside (LDB), left and right inside (VDB), left and right avg. deviation. The assessment results highlighted the level of balance development in 10-12-year-old soccer players and the correlations between their parameters.

Optimizing Motor Recovery: Dual-Task Training versus Motor Relearning Program for Ambulatory Left-Hemiplegic Stroke Patients

Background: Stroke is a significant cause of long-term disability, leading to chronic impairments of balance and gait. However, successful rehabilitation can help stroke survivors improve their mobility and quality of life. This study compares the effects of Dual-Task Training (DTT) and Motor Relearning Program (MRP) on dynamic balance and gait parameters in chronic stroke patients with left hemiplegia. Methods: A randomized, double-blinded controlled trial was done in a tertiary care hospital from March to August 2023. Through simple randomization, 40 subjects with chronic left hemiplegic stroke were allotted into either the DTT group or the MRP group. Both groups received 45-minute sessions three times weekly for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes measured were the 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT) and the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG)—secondary outcomes related to gait parameters, step length, cadence, cycle time, and stride length. Statistical analyses involved paired and independent t-tests, with a set level of significance described as p<0.05. Results: The statistical improvements in the DTT group show in the gait speed (10MWT) and TUG scores, which are significantly better than in the MRP group (p<0.05). Likewise, the DTT group’s step length, cadence, cycle time, and stride length also improved significantly (p<0.05). Conclusion: The use of DTT significantly improves the dynamic balance and gait of chronic stroke patients with left hemiplegia compared to MRP. This underscores the effectiveness of DTT as a tool for rehabilitating motor function in stroke patients. Further research should be pursued to optimize its application and evaluate long-term outcomes. Keywords: Balance, Gait, Impairments, Stroke Rehabilitation.

The Effect of Pilates Exercises on Mobility and Dynamic Balance in Former Athletes and Sedentary Individuals

Workout programmes have proven physiological benefits, and it is widely accepted that they can yield more positive health outcomes when parameters such as balance and mobility are at play. This study intends to examine the effects of a 12-week mat pilates workout program on mobility and dynamic balance parameters in the former athlete group (FAG) and the sedentary group (SG). The study was designed in an experimental design with pre-test and post-test in two groups. The study group consisted of 30 female participants, SG (n=15) and FAG (n = 15). Dynamic balance values were measured using the Star Excursion Balance Test, and lower extremity mobility was measured using the Sit and Reach Test. Both groups conducted mat pilates exercises twice a week for 12 weeks. At the end of the 12-week mat pilates workout programme, a significant difference of increase was obtained in the mobility values of the FAG (p<0,002) and the SG (p<0,001). The Y Balance Test identified a significant difference of increase with pre-test and post-test in anterior (p = 0.04), postero-lateral (p = 0.03), posteromedial (p = 0.04) directions balance in the FAG. In the difference between groups, SG showed a significant increase in posterolateral (p = 0.001) and posteromedial (p = 0.002) directions balance than FAG at post-test. At the end of the 12-week mat pilates workout programme, it was revealed out that the FAG scored better in post-test in dynamic balance than the SG although it scored lower in the dynamic balance pre-test than the SG.

Balance Changes Following a Controlled Whole-Body Vibration Training: A Pilot Analysis Addressing Balance Control in Adult Women with Obesity

Background: The prevalence of obesity among older individuals has significantly increased in recent years, potentially doubling the risk of postural imbalance and falls. Controlled whole-body vibration (CWBV) training is considered an alternative/complementary therapy for fall prevention, but its mechanisms still require further investigation. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of CWBV on balance and fall risk among older adult women with obesity. Methods: Fifteen adult women over the age of 60 (mean age 68.55 ± 4.86, BMI: 30.57 ± 2.97) participated in this quasi-experimental study. They underwent CWBV training three times weekly for six weeks. Gait stability and balance were assessed using a gait analysis system before and after the intervention. Results: The results indicated a significant decrease in both static and dynamic balance parameters, except for the variability of velocity index (P = 0.9) and fear of falling (FES-I score, P = 0.56), after the intervention. Conclusions: CWBV training appears to be an effective method for improving static and dynamic balance parameters in older adult women. However, further research is necessary to explore different dosages and protocols of vibration training, incorporating more challenging/specialized proprioceptive exercises to potentially improve the fear of falling in this population.

Investigation of the effect of chronic ankle instability on core stabilization, dynamic balance and agility among basketball players of a university

BackgroundChronic ankle instability (CAI) is frequently seen in basketball, where ankle sprains are common due to repetitive movements such as jumping, landing, deceleration and acceleration. ObjectiveThis study investigated the effects of CAI on core stabilization, dynamic balance, and agility in university-level basketball players. Materials and methodsThe study included 22 basketball players with CAI (8F, 3M; 20.09 ± 1.04 years) and without CAI (8F, 3M; 21.27 ± 2.24 years), registered as team players in the Yeditepe University basketball teams. Participants divided into two groups: the chronic ankle instability group (CAIG) and the control group (CG). The participants' core stabilization was evaluated using the McGill Core Endurance Test, dynamic balance was evaluated with the Y Balance Test and the T Test was used to evaluate agility. ResultsAccording to the results of an independent t-test, significant differences were observed between groups including posteromedial (p = 0.03) and posterolateral (p = 0.03) reach distances, trunk flexion (p = 0.04) and trunk extension (p = 0.03) tests. According to the logistic regression analysis, Y Balance Test posteromedial and posterolateral reach distances, trunk flexion and trunk extension tests in the McGill Core Endurance Test were found to be statistically significant on the presence of CAI (p < 0.05). ConclusionIncluding core stabilization and dynamic balance exercises in the training program may be beneficial to improve core stabilization and dynamic balance parameters and prevention of CAI in university-level basketball players with CAI.

Biomechanical Balance Measures During Timed Up and Go Test Improve Prediction of Prospective Falls in Older Adults

ObjectiveTo assess the feasibility of using biomechanical gait balance measures, the frontal and sagittal plane center of mass (COM)-Ankle angles, to prospectively predict recurrent falls in community-dwelling older adults. DesignA cohort study with a 1-year longitudinal follow-up. Logistic regression was used to test the ability of the COM-Ankle angles to predict prospective falls. SettingGeneral community. ParticipantsSixty older adults over the age of 70 years were recruited using a volunteer sample. InterventionsNot applicable. Main Outcome Measure(s)Biomechanical balance parameters: the sagittal and frontal plane COM-Ankle angles during the sit-to-walk and turning phases of the timed Up and Go test. The COM-Ankle angles are the inclination angles of the line formed by the COM and lateral ankle (malleolus) marker of the stance foot in the sagittal and frontal planes. We also included the following clinical balance tests in the analysis: Activity-Specific Balance Confidence, Berg Balance Scale, Fullerton Advanced Balance scale, and timed Up and Go test. Their abilities to predict falls served as a reference for the biomechanical balance parameters. ResultsWhen the biomechanical gait balance measures were added to all the confounders, the explained variance was increased from 25.3% to 50.2%. Older adults who have a smaller sagittal plane COM-Ankle angle at seat-off, a greater frontal plane COM range of motion during STW and a smaller frontal plane angle during turning were more likely to become recurrent fallers. Conclusion(s)Our results indicated that dynamic biomechanical balance parameters could provide valuable information about a participant's future fall risks beyond what can be explained by demographics, cognition, depression, strength, and past fall history. Among all biomechanical parameters investigated, frontal plane COM motion measures during STW and turning appear to be the most significant predictors for future falls.

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.

Determining the influence of anthropometric indices on balance parameters in young female gymnasts

Background and Study Aim. It is increasingly important to know the influence of age characteristics on the development of motor skills necessary for gymnastics. Currently, this influence is taken into consideration in the training of young female gymnasts. This study aims to determine the anthropometric indices impact on static and dynamic balance parameters in young female gymnasts. Material and Methods. A group of 24 young gymnasts, from the Arad Municipal Sports Club of Romania, participated in this study. The athletes, aged 6-10 years, were divided into two groups: G1 (6-8 years, n=17) and G2 (9-10 years, n=7). Anthropometric indices were measured by means of Tanita scale. The following indices were monitored: Height (cm), Weight (kg), FATP (%), FATM (kg), FFM (kg), BMI (kg/m2). Balance was evaluated with the Sensamove MiniBoard platform. There were used tests as follows: Static Bipedal Balance (SBB), Lateral Bipedal Balance (LBB) and Vertical Bipedal Balance (VBB). Measured parameters: performance (%); front and back inside (LBB, %); left and right inside (VBB, %); front and back avg. deviation (grade); left and right avg. deviation (degrees). The influence of anthropometric indices on balance parameters was determined using Pearson correlation coefficient. Results. The comparative analysis between groups highlights: average age; relation between weight and height; values of body composition indices. The comparative analysis shows better performances by 2.23% in G1 at SBB and values smaller by 0.35 degrees at average vertical deviations. LBB has better performances in G1 by 10.05% and higher values by 1.79% at keeping inside the vertical space. There is a smaller difference between Confidence Limit of Mean (CLM). As for VBB, the performances are better by 0.41% in G2, keeping inside the space to the left in G1 and to the right in G2. The correlation analysis regarding SB reveals 20% strong connections, 83.3% positive connections with performance and 45.8% negative ones with average deviations in G1. The following were noticed in G2: lack of strong connections, 33.3% positive connections and 25% negative influences. In terms of LBB, G1 has no strong connections, but it has 72.2% positive connections and 45.8% negative connections. G2 is characterized as follows: 7.1% strong connections, absence of positive connections, 75% - negative connections. VBB presents the following values in G1: 28.6% - strong connections and 45.8% - negative connections. G2 has 9.5% - strong connections, 94.4% - positive connections and 75% - negative ones. Conclusions. By determining the anthropometric indices, the age characteristics of female gymnasts were highlighted. The comparative analysis results of balance parameters reveal better performances and lower values at the average vertical and lateral deviations. Comparing the relationships between anthropometric indices and balance parameters reveals strong connections. It also shows the weight of positive and negative connections with performance, keeping inside the space and value of average deviations. These data can serve as methodological recommendations in future studies.

Alt Ekstremiteye Uygulanan Akut Titreşim Egzersizlerinin Denge Performansına Etkisinin İncelenmesi

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of exercises with acute vibration applied to the lower extremities on balance performance. The study included 68 voluntary participants, consisting of 34 male and 34 female athletes specializing in different branches who were students at the Faculty of Sport Sciences at Erciyes University. The participants were randomly divided into three groups, and different protocols were applied in each group. These groups were the exercise (E) group, the vibration + exercise (VE) group, and the control (C) group. Dynamic squats, standing calf raises (static surface), and right and left lunge exercises were performed for 30 s in the E and VE group, while no intervention was made in the C group during the same time. The VE group performed the exercises on the DKN XG10 vibration platform with vibration at 30 Hz, while the E group performed the same exercises on the same platform without vibration. The static and dynamic balance performance levels of the participants were measured using the Biodex Balance System (BBS) before and after the protocols, and the results were statistically compared. In the intragroup comparisons, there were significant differences between the pretest and posttest static balance parameters of the E group regarding their OSI and APSI values (p&amp;lt;0.05). Moreover, in terms of dynamic balance parameters, the OSI and MLSI results (p&amp;lt;0.01) of the VE group and the OSI (p&amp;lt;0.01), APSI (p&amp;lt;0.01), and MLSI results (p&amp;lt;0.05) of the E group varied significantly between the pretest and the posttest. In further studies, it is recommended to investigate the effects of different exercise types, acute vibration applied at different frequencies or durations on balance performance.

Effects of upper cervical HVLA manipulation on static and dynamic balance parameters in healthy adults – a systematic literature review

Background. Balance is a complex concept that applies not only to tasks with a reduced base of support, but also to everyday activities that require us to maintain a fixed position. Just as the concept itself is broad, the mechanisms for maintaining balance are complex and rely on information received from many regions of the body and organs. Objective. The aim of this systematic literature review is to analyse whether HVLA manipulation of a blocked C0-C1 segment can affect static and dynamic balance parameters in healthy adults. Methods. Based on the available literature, accessed via PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, EBSCO databases, a detailed search of the electronic literature was performed for 2010–2023. Eligible studies were chosen according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, using keywords: static balance, dynamic balance, manipulation, HVLA. Out of 114 manuscripts, 82 were short-listed for the preliminary review process. Twenty experimental studies were selected for final analysis. Results. Out of the 20 publications analysed, 14 examined the effect of HVLA manipulation on balance parameters. In most cases, the study groups consisted of people with no dysfunction or complaints and/or people with neck pain. The most commonly studied parameter was static balance in standing: 17 of 20 publications. For the cervical spine, 50% of the studies found a significant improvement in the parameters studied in the immediate assessment, while in the delayed assessment there were as many significant positive results as there were results with no effect on balance. In the analysis of a subset of trials that examined only asymptomatic patients, partial or significant positive effects were observed in both immediate and delayed assessment. Conclusions. We were not able to identify studies that would provide a clear answer to the research question. Based on the publications included in the review, it can be assumed that HVLA manipulation in the cervical region has the potential to affect balance in healthy adults, but the number of available studies is too small to draw firm conclusions. Further research in this area is therefore warranted.

Exploring the relationship of static and dynamic balance with muscle mechanical properties of the lower limbs in healthy young adults.

There is emerging evidence that mechanical properties of in vivo muscle tissues are associated with postural sway during quiet standing. However, it is unknown if the observed relationship between mechanical properties with static balance parameters generalise to dynamic balance. Thus, we determined the relationship between static and dynamic balance parameters with muscle mechanical properties of the ankle plantar flexors [lateral gastrocnemius (GL)] and knee extensors [vastus lateralis (VL)] in vivo. Twenty-six participants (men = 16, women = 10; age = 23.3 ± 4.4years) were assessed for static balance [centre of pressure (COP) movements during quiet standing], dynamic balance (reach distances for the Y-balance test) and mechanical properties (stiffness and tone) of the GL and VL measured in the standing and lying position. Significant (p < .05) small to moderate inverse correlations were observed between the mean COP velocity during quiet standing with stiffness (r = -.40 to -.58, p = .002 to .042) and tone (r = -0.42 to -0.56, p = 0.003 to 0.036) of the GL and VL (lying and standing). Tone and stiffness explained 16%-33% of the variance in the mean COP velocity. Stiffness and tone of the VL measured in the lying (supine) condition were also inversely significantly correlated with Y balance test performance (r = -0.39 to -0.46, p = 0.018 to 0.049). These findings highlight that individuals with low muscle stiffness and tone exhibit faster COP movements during quiet standing, indicative of reduced postural control but also reveal that low VL stiffness and tone are associated with greater reach distances in a lower extremity reaching task, indicative of greater neuromuscular performance.

Associations of Mutually Exclusive Categories of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior with Body Composition and Fall Risk in Older Women: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The individual effects of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) on health are well-recognized. However, little is known about the extent to which different combinations of these behaviors are associated with body composition and fall risk in older adults. This cross-sectional study examined the associations of mutually exclusive categories of PA and SB with body composition and fall risk in older women. Accelerometer-measured PA, body composition and fall risk (static and dynamic balance) parameters were assessed among 94 community-dwelling older women. The participants were categorized into four groups: active-low sedentary, active-high sedentary, inactive-low sedentary and inactive-high sedentary (active: ≥150 min/week moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA); low sedentary: lowest tertile of SB and light PA ratio). Compared to the inactive-high sedentary group, more favorable body composition and dynamic balance results were found in the active-low sedentary (body fat mass index (BFMI): β = -4.37, p = 0.002; skeletal muscle mass index (SMI): β = 1.23, p = 0.017; appendicular lean mass index (ALMI): β = 1.89, p = 0.003; appendicular fat mass index (AFMI): β = -2.19, p = 0.003; sit-to-stand: β = 4.52, p = 0.014) and inactive-low sedentary (BFMI: β = -3.14, p = 0.007; SMI: β = 1.05, p = 0.014; AFMI: β = -1.74, p = 0.005, sit-to-stand: β = 3.28, p = 0.034) groups. Our results suggest that PA programs focusing on concurrently achieving sufficient MVPA and reduced SB might promote a healthy body composition and reduced fall risk among older adults.

Comparison of hallux valgus deformed ballerinas and sedentary individuals in terms of balance parameters.

Background:We aimed to compare static and dynamic balance parameters and health quality parameters in ballerina and non-ballerina adolescents with hallux valgus deformity.Methods:Forty five volunteer female adolescent ballet students between the ages of 7 and 17, with hallux valgus were recruited. Group 1 = in the control group, 31 sedentary adolescents with hallux valgus were included. Group 2 = Romberg test and Flamingo test were used for static balance. The SEBT (Star Excursion Balance Test) was used to measure dynamic balance.Results:Age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) characteristics were similar between ballerina and control groups (P < .05). The Romberg test stands upright with closed eyes, with a significant difference 47.22 in group 1 and 38.13 in group 2. In contrast there was a significant difference between the two groups in the Romberg test single limb with eyes open and closed. For open eyes single limb test mean score was 55.06 in ballerinas and 44.2 in sedentary group, similarly single limb test with closed eyes mean score was 25.68 in group 1 and 18.67 in group 2.Conclusion:In conclusion, the results of this study show that ballerinas have better single-limb and closed-eye balance than sedentary individuals with HV deformities.

Clinical parameters predict the effect of bilateral subthalamic stimulation on dynamic balance parameters during gait in Parkinson's disease.

We investigated the effect of deep brain stimulation on dynamic balance during gait in Parkinson's disease with motion sensor measurements and predicted their values from disease-related factors. We recruited twenty patients with Parkinson's disease treated with bilateral subthalamic stimulation for at least 12 months and 24 healthy controls. Six monitors with three-dimensional gyroscopes and accelerometers were placed on the chest, the lumbar region, the two wrists, and the shins. Patients performed the instrumented Timed Up and Go test in stimulation OFF, stimulation ON, and right- and left-sided stimulation ON conditions. Gait parameters and dynamic balance parameters such as double support, peak turn velocity, and the trunk's range of motion and velocity in three dimensions were analyzed. Age, disease duration, the time elapsed after implantation, the Hoehn-Yahr stage before and after the operation, the levodopa, and stimulation responsiveness were reported. We individually calculated the distance values of stimulation locations from the subthalamic motor center in three dimensions. Sway values of static balance were collected. We compared the gait parameters in the OFF and stimulation ON states and controls. With cluster analysis and a machine-learning-based multiple regression method, we explored the predictive clinical factors for each dynamic balance parameter (with age as a confounder). The arm movements improved the most among gait parameters due to stimulation and the horizontal and sagittal trunk movements. Double support did not change after switching on the stimulation on the group level and did not differ from control values. Individual changes in double support and horizontal range of trunk motion due to stimulation could be predicted from the most disease-related factors and the severity of the disease; the latter also from the stimulation-related changes in the static balance parameters. Physiotherapy should focus on double support and horizontal trunk movements when treating patients with subthalamic deep brain stimulation.

The effect of exercise therapy on balance in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review.

Peripheral sensory and motor nerves are often affected in people with diabetes mellitus (DM), and balance problems are widespread. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is common. This study investigated the impact of exercise treatment on balance parameters in diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients. Electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct, were used to perform a search of accessible papers. The search strategy was (exercise therapy OR physical activity) AND (balance OR equilibrium OR postural control OR fall OR fall risk OR static balance OR dynamic balance OR functional balance) AND diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to rate the research in this review for its quality and reliability. Scores ranged from 5 to 9 on the PEDro scale. According to databases, about 9,103 articles were found in August 2021 from March 1984 to February 2020. From 9103 articles, 3872 were deleted for different reasons, including duplicate, non-randomized controlled trial (RCT) articles and after reviewing the title and abstract. About 5,231 articles were found in free full text. In the end, 12 submissions were approved. These studies investigated the effects of exercise treatment on static, dynamic, and functional balance parameters in diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients. This study showed the positive effects of balance and strengthening exercise on static balance indices in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-022-01077-1.

Effects of a Short-Term Slackline Training Program on Energy Expenditure and Balance in Healthy Young Adults: A Preliminary Report of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

The development of technology and a fast-paced lifestyle has caused a significant decrease in physical activity, especially among young people. These worrying trends can be countered by the use of attractive forms of physical recreation, including the increasingly popular slackline. The aim of this study was to evaluate energy expenditure during slackline training and to analyze changes in dynamic and static balance parameters after supervised slackline training sessions. The study enrolled 28 healthy volunteers (14 men and 14 women aged 21–25) who were randomly divided into two groups: experimental and passive control. The energy expenditure level was the primary outcome and was assessed using the SenseWear Armband. Each participant underwent an initial and final balance assessment using two selected protocols on the Balance Master platform. The intervention lasted 5 days, with 15 min of supervised training per day. The average energy expenditure expressed in MET was 6.0 (±0.7) MET per training session. An analysis of the results regarding static and dynamic balance showed that the group participating in slackline training significantly improved stability on foam surfaces with their eyes open (p < 0.003), as well as tandem walk speeds (p < 0.05), both with small effect sizes. The results suggested that slackline training has the potential to produce significant positive effects on general health statuses following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations on physical activity. The significant improvement in task-specific balance suggests that slackline training could become an important element of the prevention and rehabilitation of many injuries.

Numerical simulation study and application of coal seepage evolution law around water injection borehole in the stope “dynamic-static” pressure zone

A pressure relief anti-reflection model of a borehole along a coal seam goaf was constructed to analyze the stress-plastic spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of a borehole, and the implementation process of pressure relief anti-outbursts from the underground mine of the Huaibei Qingdong Coal Mine was used as the research background. A simulation of the mathematical relationship between the permeability of the coal seam sample and the overburden-gas pressure was performed, incorporating the dynamic balance parameters of the stress after the borehole was constructed along the coal seam; in addition, the water injection pressure relief process and the plastic deformation mechanism of the boreholes in the “dynamic-static” pressure zone were simulated. These simulations were performed to explore the evolution of stress permeability of the coal body before and after water injection. The results showed that after water injection, the stress unloading in the stress relief region was 12.8 ∼ 31.1%, and the permeability was increased by 23.5 ∼ 42.9%; the stress unloading in the stress concentration region was 26.7 ∼ 58.4%, and the permeability was increased by 263.7 ∼ 563.5%. With the application of water injection technology in the drilling zone of a bedding layer at the 726 working face of the Qingdong Coal Mine, the average cutting volume in the water injection area decreased by 17.19%, the K1 and Δh2 values decreased by 40.3% and 12.2%, respectively, and the return gas concentration decreased by 31%. Thus, pressure relief had an outstanding anti-outburst effect.

The Evaluation of Gait and Balance for Patients with Early Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Cross-Sectional Study.

ObjectiveFalls often occur in patients with diabetic neuropathy due to biomechanical alternation. The implication of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) on gait and balance remains poorly understood.MethodsA total of 11 dynamic gait, balance and electrophysiological parameters were evaluated in 176 participants. The biomechanical parameters were compared between groups.ResultsStride length and stride velocity were significantly lower in all subgroups of DPN compared with healthy subjects (p<0.05). Stance phase and double support phase were significantly higher, but swing phase were significantly lower across all subgroups of DPN than healthy subjects (p<0.05). Under eyes-open standing, the ML and AP range parameters of CoM sway, ankle sway and hip sway, CoM sway index, ankle swing index in both subclinical and confirmed DPN patients were all significantly higher compared to healthy subjects (p<0.05). Under eyes-closed standing, AP range parameters of CoM sway in subclinical DPN and confirmed DPN patients were significantly higher than healthy subjects (p<0.05). The hip sway areas in diabetics were significantly higher compared to healthy subjects (p<0.05).ConclusionThe abnormal biomechanical parameters existed in the early stages of patients with DPN. The static balance under eyes-open and eye-closed condition is maintained by ankle joint compensation strategy and hip joint protection strategy. An early evaluation and better risk management is essential for diabetic patients with a history of more than 5 years even without DPN clinical symptoms and signs.Clinical Trial Registration NumberNo. ChiCTR1800019179, www.chictr.org.cn.

Impact of Physiotherapy with Unstable Platforms for the Prevention of Ankle Injuries and Improving Balance in Male Volleyball Players

Background. Ankle sprain is the most common sports injury. Conducting physiotherapy with unstable platforms efficiently decreases risk of ankle injuries and increases static and dynamic balance parameters.&#x0D; Aim. To estimate the effect of physiotherapy on balance of volleyball players and the prevention of ankle injuries.&#x0D; Methods. The study involved 10 male volleyball players, who were randomly divided into two groups: intervention (physiotherapy with unstable platforms) and control (no physiotherapy applied). Flamingo test and modified star excursion balance test were used before and after intervention. Duration of intervention – 4 weeks.&#x0D; Results. After 4 weeks of physiotherapy with unstable platforms static balance increased in intervention group subjects by 66.7% (p &lt; 0,05); however, there were no changes in the control group. Post intervention examination showed statistically significant increase in Y balance test results in different directions, while the control group did not show any change.&#x0D; Conclusion. After a physiotherapy program with unstable platforms, static balance as well as dynamic balance increased. A 4-week physiotherapy program with unstable platforms significantly decreased the risk of ankle injuries in male volleyball players.&#x0D; Keywords: balance, ankle injury prevention, volleyball.