Functional Balance Performance Research Articles

Riding waves to improve functioning: a quantitative evaluation of a Surf Week in individuals with chronic phase brain injury with six months follow-up

Purpose Environmental enrichment seems to enable people in the chronic phase of acquired brain injury (ABI) to experience new functional abilities and motor/coping strategies and consequently to become more adaptable which might prevent/reverse functional decline. This study describes the influence of a five-days Surf Week program on participants on physical function, self-efficacy, functional balance performance and self-perceived recovery. Materials and methods A multiple-baseline single-case design was used. Adults participating in the Surf Week in chronic phase of ABI were eligible to participate. Participants completed a battery of tests monitoring physical function, self-efficacy, functional balance performance and self-perceived recovery. This battery was repeated 5 times over a 1-year period, two times pre-Surf Week, three times post-Surf Week. Visual data inspection with two non-overlap methods were used to determine if patients showed sustained improvement in outcomes post-intervention. Results A moderate to strong indication for improvements on physical function, functional balance performance and self-perceived recovery exists till six months follow-up. No indication was observed on self-efficacy till six months follow-up. Conclusions A five-days Surf Week is a physically, cognitively and socially intensive stimulating activity that can positively challenge individuals after ABI and seems to improve physical functioning, functional balance performance and self-perceived recovery.

Improved subjective sleep quality after three months of balance learning in older adults

Improved subjective sleep quality after three months of balance learning in older adults

FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT SCREEN (FMSTM) AND BALANCE IN BODYBUILDERS DURING THE DEFINITION PERIOD

The functional movement and balance performances of bodybuilders and the relationship between them arouse curiosity in the definition period where intense restrictions are experienced. The aims of this study were to (a) determine functional movement screening (FMSTM) and balance performance in bodybuilders during the definition period and (b) examine the relationship between these tests. Twelve adult male bodybuilders voluntarily participated in the study. Participants performed flamingo balance test for static balance, upper & lower quarter Y-balance test (YBT-LQ & YBT-UQ) for dynamic balance, and FMS TM tests (deep squat, hurdle step, in-line lunge, shoulder mobility, active straight leg raise, trunk stability push-up, and rotary stability) for functional movement screening. There was a significant negative correlation between dominant leg static balance and rotary stability (r=-.832, p=.040) and a significant positive relationship between dynamic balance and rotary stability in dominant and non-dominant leg (dominant leg: r=.589, p=.044, non-dominant leg: r=.775, p=003). There was no significant relationship between YBT-UQ composite scores and FMSTM composite scores on both sides in bodybuilders during the definition period. As a result, the FMS TM score is quite low in bodybuilders during the definition period, and the increase in static and lower extremity dynamic balance performance may increase the rotary stability score. Bodybuilders are recommended to practice lower extremity static and dynamic balance exercises in addition to training during the definition period.

Vestibular function and balance performance in children with sensorineural hearing loss

ObjectiveBalance difficulties are common in children with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). For some of these children, concomitant vestibular deficits may impact postural control. This study aimed to explore vestibular function, functional balance and postural control, and the relationship between these measures in children with SNHL.DesignCross-sectional study quantifying peripheral vestibular function (vestibular evoked myogenic potentials [VEMP], video head impulse test), functional balance (Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency [BOT]) and postural control (static posturography with modified sensory inputs). The relationship between the degree of vestibular impairment, functional balance and postural control was explored.Study sampleEleven with SNHL, and 11 with normal sound detection (NSD) between 5 and 12 years of age.ResultsChildren with SNHL had varying degrees of vestibular dysfunction and differences in overall balance performance. Across all children, greater degrees of vestibular impairment were associated with significantly poorer functional balance and postural control performance for complex standing conditions (BOT percentile rank p = 0.001; compliant surface eyes open [EO]: p = 0.027; compliant surface eyes closed: p = 0.048).ConclusionsVestibular dysfunction in children with SNHL was variable. Vestibular impairment predicted poorer functional balance performance and postural control abilities, including differences in postural sway patterns.

An investigation of the effects of dual-task balance exercises on balance, functional status and dual-task performance in children with Down syndrome

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the effects of dual task (DT) balance exercises on functional status, balance, and DT performance in children with Down Syndrome (DS). Methods Participants were divided into two groups: intervention group (IG; n = 13) and control group (CG;n = 14). WeeFIM was used to measure the functional independence level and balance was evaluated using the Pediatric Balance Scale. DT performance was assessed using Timed Up and Go, Single Leg Stance, Tandem-Stance and 30 s Sit to Stand tests without concomitant task, with motor task or cognitive task. The IG received 16 sessions of DT training twice a week for 8 weeks. Results Functional level, balance, and DT performance improved significantly in the IG, whereas only balance improved in the CG. Significantly better results were achieved in the IG, as demonstrated by greater pre/post-treatment changes. Conclusion DT balance exercises improved functional level, balance and DT performance of children with DS.

The effects of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization approach on clinical outcomes in older patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a randomized, controlled clinical trial

Objective We aimed to examine the effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) approach in older patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP). Methods A total of 72 participants with CNSLBP were assigned to either the experimental group (n = 36) or control group (n = 36) in this randomized study. A conventional physiotherapy program was administered to the participants in the control group for 3 days per week for a total of 6 weeks. In addition to the conventional program, DNS exercise protocol was performed for 3 days per week for 6 weeks for the participants in the experimental group. While quality of movements and exercise capacity were our primary outcomes, functional balance and quality of life constituted our secondary outcomes. The participants were assessed both at baseline and post-treatment. Results The improvement in a deep squat, in-line lunge, hurdle step, shoulder flexibility, rotary trunk stability, total Functional Movement Screening score, and Timed-up and Go Test score was greater in the experimental group (p<.05). The improvement was similar in both groups in terms of the rest of outcome measures. Discussion This study demonstrated the effectiveness of the DNS approach on some functional movement patterns and functional balance performance in older patients with CNSLBP.

Selective motor control correlates with gross motor ability, functional balance and gait performance in ambulant children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy

BackgroundSelective motor control (SMC) is a fundamental component of typical human motion. As a result of brain damage, impaired SMC often leads to difficulties with coordination, balance, gait efficiency and symmetry. Research questionWhat is the association between impaired SMC and lower limb motor ability, functional balance and gait performance in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (CP)? MethodsThirty-six children (aged 5–16 years) with spastic bilateral CP in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I to II were included in this study. SMC was assessed using Selective Control Assessment of the Lower Extremity (SCALE). Gross motor function was assessed using Gross Motor Function Measure-88 items D and E dimension (GMFM-88 D&E). Functional balance was assessed using Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). Gait quality was assessed using Edinburg Visual Gait Score (EVGS) and 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT). Spearman's rank correlation analyses were used to determine the association between SMC and other factors. ResultsCorrelation analyses showed that SCALE was strongly positively correlated with GMFM-88 (D&E) (rs=0.756, p < 0.001), PBS (rs=0.769, p < 0.001), and height-normalized fast walking speed (rs=0.632, p < 0.001), and strongly negatively correlated with TUG (rs=−0.766, p < 0.001) and EVGS (rs=−0.893, p < 0.001). SignificanceLower extremity SMC deficits are associated with poor gross motor function and balance control, more severe overall gait deviations and decreased fast walking speed in children with bilateral spastic CP. Physical therapy should include interventions that promote selective motor control in order to improve overall functional ability.

Which type of mind-body exercise is most effective in improving functional performance and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease? A systematic review with network meta-analysis.

Several studies have investigated the effect of mind-body exercise (MBE) on functional performance and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Parkinson's disease (PD), but it is still very difficult for clinicians to make informed decision on the best mind-body exercise for PD. We analyzed the relative efficacy of MBE (yoga, Tai-Chi, Pilates, Qigong, and dance) in improving functional performance and HRQoL in patients with PD. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed using network meta-analysis (NMA), searching the following databases: Cochrane, Web of Science, and PubMed using specific keywords until December 28, 2021, assessing the effects of MBE on functional performance and HRQoL in patients with PD. This review included 60 RCTs with 2037 participants. A ranking of MBE for modifying various aspects of functional performance and HRQoL was achieved. Pairwise NMA showed Pilates to be the most effective in improving functional mobility (MD: - 3.81; 95% CI (- 1.55, - 6.07) and balance performance (SMD: 2.83; 95% CI (1.87, 3.78). Yoga (MD: - 5.95; 95% CI (- 8.73, - 3.16) and dance (MD: - 5.87; 95% CI (- 8.73, - 3.01) to be the most effective in improving motor function, whereas Qigong (MD: 0.32; 95% CI (0.00, 0.64) was most effective in improving gait speed. Considering HRQoL, dance was found to be the most effective (SMD: - 0.36; 95% CI (- 0.70, -0.01). MBE should be considered an effective strategy for improving functional performance and HRQoL in patients with PD. The most effective MBE intervention varied with the functional performance domain. Dance was an effective exercise for improving HRQoL among people with PD. CRD42022301030.

Brain Activation During Active Balancing and Its Behavioral Relevance in Younger and Older Adults: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) Study.

Age-related deterioration of balance control is widely regarded as an important phenomenon influencing quality of life and longevity, such that a more comprehensive understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying this process is warranted. Specifically, previous studies have reported that older adults typically show higher neural activity during balancing as compared to younger counterparts, but the implications of this finding on balance performance remain largely unclear. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), differences in the cortical control of balance between healthy younger (n = 27) and older (n = 35) adults were explored. More specifically, the association between cortical functional activity and balance performance across and within age groups was investigated. To this end, we measured hemodynamic responses (i.e., changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin) while participants balanced on an unstable device. As criterion variables for brain-behavior-correlations, we also assessed postural sway while standing on a free-swinging platform and while balancing on wobble boards with different levels of difficulty. We found that older compared to younger participants had higher activity in prefrontal and lower activity in postcentral regions. Subsequent robust regression analyses revealed that lower prefrontal brain activity was related to improved balance performance across age groups, indicating that higher activity of the prefrontal cortex during balancing reflects neural inefficiency. We also present evidence supporting that age serves as a moderator in the relationship between brain activity and balance, i.e., cortical hemodynamics generally appears to be a more important predictor of balance performance in the older than in the younger. Strikingly, we found that age differences in balance performance are mediated by balancing-induced activation of the superior frontal gyrus, thus suggesting that differential activation of this region reflects a mechanism involved in the aging process of the neural control of balance. Our study suggests that differences in functional brain activity between age groups are not a mere by-product of aging, but instead of direct behavioral relevance for balance performance. Potential implications of these findings in terms of early detection of fall-prone individuals and intervention strategies targeting balance and healthy aging are discussed.

Effects of mental fatigue on static upright stance and functional balance in older adults

BackgroundCognitive influences on balance control may contribute to greater instability and falls in older adults. In support of this, old age exacerbates the effects of a concurrent cognitive task on balance. Mental fatigue is a psychobiological state experienced following prolonged demanding cognitive activity. However, its effects on static upright stance and functional balance in older adults is unclear. It is also unclear how the effects of mental fatigue and a concurrent task interact. MethodsBalance was assessed in ten younger and ten older participants before and immediately after 25 min of the incongruent Stroop colour-word test (mental fatigue) and leisurely reading (control), presented in a randomized counterbalanced order on separate days. Static and functional balance was assessed using the centre of pressure path length when standing still and the ‘Timed Up & Go’ test, respectively. These balance assessments were completed with and without a concurrent backward counting task (i.e. dual-task and single-task, respectively). ResultsUnder subjectively-confirmed conditions of mental fatigue, sway path length when standing still was 32% greater than the control condition in older adults but unchanged in younger adults. This age-dependant effect of mental fatigue on static balance was similar in single-task and dual-task trials. Mental fatigue did not significantly affect functional balance performance in either age group. ConclusionsThese findings are the first to show mental fatigue to impair static balance control in older adults. Therefore, whether due to everyday activities or a symptom of disease, mental fatigue may contribute to poor balance in older adults.

Relationship between modified TUG and WeeFIM in children with cerebral palsy

Background: Cerebral Palsy (CP) refers to permanent, mutable motor development disorders stemming from a primary brain lesion, leading to secondary musculoskeletal alterations, and limitation of activities of daily living. Motor impairment is the main manifestation in children with CP, and it has consequent effects on the biomechanics of the body. The WeeFIM is a short and quick to administer assessment of functional outcome in paediatric rehabilitation. The modified Timed Up and Go test (mTUG) was designed for children with Cerebral Palsy and assesses mobility and requires both static and dynamic balance. Context and Purpose: Determining if a relationship exists between functional mobility and level of functional independence in daily activities will help to design treatment programs which target improvement in functional mobility in order to improve functional independence in children with Cerebral Palsy. The studies done correlating functional balance and functional performance in children with CP have largely yielded inconclusive results. Hence this study was designed with the aim of finding if a relationship exists between functional mobility measured by mTUG and functional independence measured by WeeFIM in children with CP. Methods: It was a correlation study conducted on 20 children with spastic cerebral palsy from different CP centers in and around Mangalore. Participants were evaluated using modified TUG and WeeFIM scales and the scores tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis to determine if there is a relationship exists between mTUG and WeeFIM. Results: When the measured variables were correlated with each other using Pearson’s correlation it was found that the Pearson’s correlation coefficient was - .470, indicating a moderate negative correlation between the mTUG and WeeFIMscores. Conclusion: There exists a positive relationship between functional mobility and functional independence in children with CP. Improving mobility in children with CP can help them to attain better functional independence. KEY WORD: Cerebral Palsy, GMFC, mTUG, WeeFIM.

The acute effect of two massage techniques on functional capability and balance in recreationally trained older adult women: A cross-over study

With aging comes a reduction in neuromuscular and neuromotor function. Different strategies have been used to mitigate these functional losses. Certain manual therapy techniques and interventions have been explored with regard to their ability to improve functional capability and balance in an older adult population. The purpose of this study was to analyze the acute effects of two massage techniques on functional capability and balance performance in recreationally trained older adult women. Twenty-eight older adult women (66.74 ± 4.61 years) completed three interventions: a) stick massage followed by functional capability and balance performance tests (MMS), b) manual massage followed by functional capability and balance performance tests (MM), c) no MMS or MM (control condition (CC)) – only performed the functional capability and balance performance tests. Functional capability was assessed by four tests that are part of the Senior Fitness Test: the 6-min walk (W6), the chair sit-and-reach (CSR), the 8-foot up-and-go (8FUG), and the 30s-chair stand (30s-CS). Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between MM and MMS compared to CC among 30s-CS, W6, CSR, and 8FUG. BBS showed a significant difference between MM and CC (p = 0.041). Both MM and MMS demonstrated significant acute improvements in the functional capability of recreationally trained elderly women and may be included in an exercise program.

The Antwerp Vestibular Compensation Index (AVeCI): an index for vestibular compensation estimation, based on functional balance performance

PurposeTo create an index that is a measure of the amount of vestibular compensation and for which only functional balance performance is needed.MethodsThe medical charts of 62 eligible peripheral vestibular dysfunction (PVD) patients were analyzed retrospectively. To be included, the following vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) and balance performance data had to be available: (1) caloric and sinusoidal harmonic acceleration test (SHA) and (2) standing balance sum-eyes closed (SBS-EC), Timed Up and Go Test and Dynamic Gait Index. Patients were divided into three groups: normal caloric- and SHA test (group 1), abnormal caloric- and normal SHA test (group 2, PVD compensated) and abnormal caloric- and SHA test (group 3, PVD uncompensated). Next to the use of non-parametric tests to study the VOR and balance variables, logistic regression was used to identify the balance measures that predict whether PVD patients were compensated or uncompensated. This resulted also in the construction of a continuous measure representing the degree of compensation.ResultsLogistic regression identified SBS-EC and age to classify uncompensated from compensated patients with sensitivity of 83.9% and specificity of 72.4%. Then an index was created, called the Antwerp Vestibular Compensation Index, AVeCI = − 50 + age × 0.486 + SBS-EC × 0.421. A patient belongs to the uncompensated group when AVeCI < 0 and to the compensated group when AVeCI > 0, with respective group means of − 5 and 5.ConclusionAVeCI stages the degree of compensation of PVD patients and can serve to evaluate rehabilitation effects.

Functional Performance of Firefighters After Exposure to Environmental Conditions and Exercise.

Slips, trips, and falls are leading causes of musculoskeletal injuries in firefighters. Researchers have hypothesized that heat stress is the major contributing factor to these fireground injuries. To examine the effect of environmental conditions, including hot and ambient temperatures, and exercise on functional and physiological outcome measures, including balance, rectal temperature, and perceived exertion. Randomized controlled clinical trial. Laboratory environmental chamber. A total of 13 healthy, active career firefighters (age = 26 ± 6 years [range = 19-35 years], height = 178.61 ± 4.93 cm, mass = 86.56 ± 16.13 kg). Independent variables consisted of 3 conditions (exercise in heat [37.41°C], standing in heat [37.56°C], and exercise in ambient temperature [14.24°C]) and 3 data-collection times (preintervention, postintervention, and postrecovery). Each condition was separated from the others by at least 1 week and lasted a maximum of 40 minutes or until the participant reached volitional fatigue or a rectal temperature of 40.0°C. Firefighting-specific functional balance performance index, rectal temperature, and rating of perceived exertion. Exercise in the heat decreased functional balance, increased rectal temperature, and altered the perception of exertion compared with the other intervention conditions. A bout of exercise in a hot, humid environment increased rectal temperature in a similar way to that reported in the physically active population and negatively affected measures of functional balance. Rather than independently affecting balance, the factors of exercise and heat stress appeared to combine, leading to an increased likelihood of slips, trips, and falls.

Poststroke Fatigue Is Related to Motor and Cognitive Performance: A Secondary Analysis.

Poststroke fatigue (PSF) is a common debilitating and persistent symptom after stroke. The relationship between PSF and motor and cognitive function remains inconclusive partly due to lack of control for effects of depression and use of insensitive measures. We examined the relationship between PSF and motor and cognitive performance using a comprehensive set of behavioral measures and excluding individuals with depression. Fifty-three individuals poststroke (16 female) were included (median age: 63 years, median months poststroke: 20 months). Poststroke fatigue was quantified using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and cognitive performance was measured with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, simple and choice reaction time (SRT and CRT) tasks. Lower extremity motor performance included Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment, 5 times sit-to-stand test (5 × STS), Berg Balance Scale, Functional Ambulation Category, and gait speed. Upper extremity motor performance was indexed with Fugl-Meyer, grip strength, and Box and Block test. Spearman correlation and stepwise linear regression analyses were performed to examine relationships. Two motor performance measures, Berg Balance Scale and Functional Ambulation Category, were significantly correlated with FSS (ρ = -0.31 and -0.27, respectively) while all cognitive measures were significantly correlated with FSS (ρ = -0.28 for Montreal Cognitive Assessment, 0.29 for SRT, and 0.29 for CRT). Regression analysis showed that Berg Balance Scale was the only significant determinant for FSS (R = 0.11). Functional gait, balance, and cognitive performance are associated with PSF. Fatigue should be considered when planning and delivering interventions for individuals with stroke. Future studies are needed to explore the potential efficacy of balance and cognitive training in PSF management.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A287).

A Preliminary Study of Dual-Task Training Using Virtual Reality: Influence on Walking and Balance in Chronic Poststroke Survivors

BackgroundStroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the Western world, and leads to impaired balance and mobility. Objective: To investigate the feasibility of using a Virtual Reality-based dual task of an upper extremity while treadmill walking, to improve gait and functional balance performance of chronic poststroke survivors. MethodsTwenty-two individuals chronic poststroke participated in the study, and were divided into 2 groups (each group performing an 8-session exercise program): 11 participated in dual-task walking (DTW), and the other 11 participated in single-task treadmill walking (TMW). The study was a randomized controlled trial, with assessors blinded to the participants’ allocated group. Measurements were conducted at pretest, post-test, and follow-up. Outcome measures included: the 10-m walking test (10 mW), Timed Up and Go (TUG), the Functional Reach Test (FRT), the Lateral Reach Test Left/Right (LRT-L/R); the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale, and the Berg Balance Scale(BBS). ResultsImprovements were observed in balance variables: BBS, FRT, LRT-L/R, (P < .01) favoring the DTW group; in gait variables: 10 mW time, also favoring the DTW group (P < .05); and the ABC scale (P < .01). No changes for interaction were observed in the TUG. ConclusionsThe results of this study demonstrate the potential of VR-based DTW to improve walking and balance in people after stroke; thus, it is suggested to combine training sessions that require the performance of multiple tasks at the same time.

Improved balance performance accompanied by structural plasticity in blind adults after training

Postural control requires the sensory integration of visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive signals. In the absence of vision, either by blindfolding or in blind individuals, balance performance is typically poorer than with sight. Previous research has suggested that despite showing compensatory vestibular and proprioceptive processing during upright standing, balance performance in blind individuals is overall lower than in sighted controls with eyes open. The present study tested whether balance training, which places demands on vestibular and proprioceptive self-motion perception, improves balance performance in blind adults, and whether we find similar structural correlates in cortical and subcortical brain areas as have been reported in sighted individuals. Fourteen congenitally or late blind adults were randomly assigned to either a balance or a relaxation group and exercised twice a week for 12 weeks. Assessments prior to and after training included balance tests and the acquisition of T1-weighted MRI images. The blind balance group significantly improved in dynamic, static, and functional balance performance compared to the blind relaxation group. The balance performance improvement did not differ from that of age- and gender matched sighted adults after balance training. Cortical thickness increased in the left parahippocampus and decreased in the inferior insula bilaterally in the blind balance group compared to the blind relaxation group. Thickness decreases in the insula were related to improved static and functional balance. Gray matter volume was reduced in the left hippocampus proper and increased in the right subiculum in the blind balance group. The present data suggest that impaired balance performance in blind adults can be significantly improved by a training inducing plasticity in brain regions associated with vestibular and proprioceptive self-motion processing.

Relationships Between Neuromuscular Function and Functional Balance Performance in Firefighters

The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationships between neuromuscular function and functional balance performance in firefighters. Fifty career firefighters (35.1 ± 7.5 yr) performed isometric leg extension and flexion muscle actions to examine peak torque (PT), and absolute (aTQ) and normalized (nTQ; %PT) rapid torque variables at 50, 100, 150, and 200 ms. A performance index (PI) was determined from the functional balance assessment completion time. Partial correlations were used to examine the relationship between the PI and the maximal and rapid TQ variables for each muscle and the composite value, while controlling for demographic data related to the PI. Multiple regression analyses examined the relative contributions of the maximal and rapid aTQ variables, and demographic data on the PI. After controlling for age and %BF, the majority of the later aTQ and nTQ variables (100–200 ms) and PT were associated with the PI (r = −0.501–−0.315). Age, %BF, and aTQ100 explained 42–50% of the variance in the PI. Lower rapid strength, increased age, and poorer body composition were related to worse performance during the functional balance assessment. Strategies to improve rapid strength and %BF, especially in aging firefighters may impact dynamic balance abilities in firefighters.

A subject-specific musculoskeletal model to estimate joint loading at different walking speeds

Sensory feedback from the visual system along with the vestibular and somatosensory systems is essential for the regulation of normal postural control. Children with strabismus and, therefore, with abnormal binocular vision, may have an altered perception of space and use different sets of cues to determine depth perception when compared with children without strabismus.To explore the postural control of children with and without strabismus, when the three sensory systems are challenged.Forty-six children (21 with strabismus and 25 age-matched controls) aged between 5 and 10 years completed ophthalmic screening and then underwent assessment for postural control, which included Paediatric Balance Scale (PBS) and six conditions of the Sensory Organization Test (SOT). Four primary outcome measures were: PBS summary score, Equilibrium Score (ES), Strategy Score (SS) and Sensory Analysis Score of the SOT.A significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed between the strabismus and non-strabismus group in the PBS and, ES and SS of SOT condition 1. The Sensory Analysis scores were significantly different (P = 0.03) between the groups for ‘Somatosensory’. Simple linear regression analysis suggested that the strabismus condition was significantly (P ≤ 0.02) associated with the PBS and, the ES and SS of condition 1, with a variance of 14.6%, 16.1% and 12.8%, respectively. Subgroup analysis suggested that age was a significant (P ≤ 0.001) correlate for balance scores in non-strabismus group (R2 ranged from 32% to 58.4%), but not for the strabismus group.Postural control in children with strabismus is not equivalent to that of children without strabismus, when their somatosensory system is challenged. Additionally, the functional balance performance of children with strabismus is lower than their counterparts without strabismus. Collectively, the results suggest that the usual improvement in balance performance with increasing age is observed in children without strabismus but not in children with strabismus.

Functional Task and Balance Performance in Bed Rest Subjects and Astronauts.

The purpose of this study was to determine how short- and long-duration spaceflight affects astronauts' performance on functional tests that challenge the balance control system (Seated Egress and Walk; Object Translation; Recovery from Fall/Stand; and Jump Down) and on clinical tests of balance function (Computerized Dynamic Posturography and Tandem Walk). In addition, we examined how exercise affects functional performance after long-term axial body unloading during 70 d of bed rest at 6° head-down tilt. Data were collected twice during the 2-mo period before spaceflight or during the 2-wk period before bed rest, and four times after flight or bed rest: on the day of landing or the day bed rest ended, 1 d and 6 d later, and a final session 12 d after bed rest or 30 d after spaceflight. For bed rest subjects, long-term axial unloading alone caused functional performance deficits immediately after bed rest. However, the addition of an exercise regimen did not significantly improve median functional performance immediately after this axial unloading. For spaceflight subjects, the length of the space mission was directly related to the severity of functional performance deficits within 1 d of landing and during the subsequent recovery period after flight. The performance data suggest that an additional sensorimotor-based countermeasure may be necessary to maintain functional performance at preflight levels immediately after spaceflight.Miller CA, Kofman IS, Brady RR, May-Phillips TR, Batson CD, Lawrence EL, Taylor LC, Peters BT, Mulavara AP, Feiveson AH, Reschke MF, Bloomberg JJ. Functional task and balance performance in bed rest subjects and astronauts. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(9):805-815.