Postural Stability Index Research Articles

Balance Ability Characteristics and Related Factors in Athletes Across Different Sports: A Preliminary Study

Background: We conducted a cross-sectional study to examine two-leg- and one-leg-type balance characteristics in athletes and explore factors related to their balance ability. Methods: A total of 213 participants, including athletes from various sports (gymnastics, boat racing, swimming, soccer, judo, and baseball) and non-athletes, were included (142 men, 71 women, average age 21.5 ± 2.1 years). Balance ability was classified into two-leg and one-leg types using the modified index of postural stability (mIPS) in a two-leg stance and the one-legged stance duration with eyes closed (OLS). Body composition, upper and lower limb strength, and lower limb sensation were also measured. To examine the balance characteristics of each sport, the mIPS and OLS were used as dependent variables in a multiple regression model with age, height, weight, and sex as independent variables. Results: The results showed a significantly higher mIPS in gymnastics (estimate: 0.22) and boat racing (0.14), and it was lower in swimming (−0.25). The OLS was significantly higher in soccer (16.98), judo (16.23), gymnastics (9.77), and baseball (9.12) and significantly lower in swimming (7.93). Additionally, the mIPS was independently associated with knee extension strength (0.12), sensory motor variables (−0.004), and height (−0.01). The OLS was associated with skeletal muscle mass (1.85) and height (−1.42). Conclusions: In summary, gymnasts showed superior two-leg and one-leg balance; boat racers excelled in two-leg balance; swimmers showed inferior two-leg but better one-leg balance; and soccer, judo, and baseball athletes demonstrated superior one-leg balance. Additionally, the mIPS was associated with knee extensor strength, plantar pressure sensation, and height, whereas the OLS was associated with skeletal muscle mass and height.

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

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

Factors Affecting Dynamic Postural Control Ability in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Research on postural control in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has focused on static postural control, with few studies assessing dynamic postural control. We aimed to identify factors affecting index of postural stability (IPS), a dynamic postural control parameter, in patients with AIS. The participants comprised 50 female patients with AIS. We measured the IPS using stabilometry to evaluate dynamic postural control ability. We investigated age of the participants, major curve position (thoracic or thoracolumbar/lumbar), Cobb angle, and coronal balance. We then assessed the relationships between stabilometry parameters and other variables. IPS was analyzed with a linear regression model. Coronal balance, major curve position, and age each correlated with dynamic postural control ability. The Cobb angle showed no correlation with any of the parameters. Our results offer new insights into the assessment of postural control in patients with AIS.

Different montages of transcranial direct current stimulation on postural stability in chronic low back pain patients: A randomized sham-controlled study.

Impairment in both the motor and cognitive aspects of postural control is a critical issue in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) who experience high pain anxiety (HPA). This study aimed to compare the effects of cathodal and anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (c-tDCS and a-tDCS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on postural control during cognitive postural tasks in CLBP patients with HPA. This study included 66 patients randomly assigned to three groups: DLPFC a-tDCS, DLPFC c-tDCS, and sham tDCS. All groups received 20 minutes of tDCS, but the stimulation was gradually turned off in the sham group. Postural stability indices were assessed using the Biodex Balance System. Both the a-tDCS and c-tDCS groups showed a significant reduction in most postural stability indices at static and dynamic levels after the interventions (immediately, 24 hours, and one-week follow-up) during the cognitive postural task (P< 0.01). Additionally, there was a significant improvement in postural balance in the a-tDCS and c-tDCS groups compared to the sham tDCS group (P< 0.01). Furthermore, the a-tDCS group showed significantly greater improvement than the c-tDCS group (P< 0.01). Based on the results, both a-tDCS and c-tDCS over the DLPFC had positive effects on postural control during cognitive postural tasks in CLBP patients with HPA.

Whole-body vibration versus gravity force stimulation on postural stability in children with Down syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

Purpose. To compare how functional walking ability and postural stability are affected in children with DS by whole-body vibration and gravity force stimulation. Methods. This study enrolled sixty DS children from both sexes into three groups at random. A structured physical therapy plan was given to the control and both study groups. Whole-body vibration (WBV) and gravity force stimulation (GFS) were given to the study groups (I) and (II) respectively. Postural stability indices (overall, mediolateral, and anteroposterior) and functional walking capacity were assessed by the Biodex balance system (BBS) and six-minute walk test (6MWT) respectively. The intervention session was conducted thrice/week for 12 consecutive weeks. Results. All stability indices at stability levels 8 and 5 significantly decreased after-intervention compared to before-intervention, but the 6MWT significantly increased in all three groups. All stability indices at stability levels 8 and 5 showed a significant decrease after-intervention, and the 6MWT in all three groups significantly increased in favor of study groups (WBV) and (GFS). However, there were no significant differences in all stability indices at stability levels 8 and 5 and in 6MWT between study groups (WBV) and (GFS) after-intervention. Conclusion. Whole-body vibration and gravity force stimulation both had a similar effect on postural stability and functional walking capacity among children who have Down syndrome.

Investigating Eye Movement and Postural Stability Relationships Using Mobile Eye-Tracking and Posturography: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Vision and eye movements play a crucial role in maintaining postural stability. This study investigated the relationship between eye movements and postural control in healthy adults using mobile eye-tracking technology and posturography. Forty healthy participants underwent assessments of eye movements using a mobile eye-tracking system and postural stability using Tetrax posturography under various sensory conditions. Pearson correlation coefficients were computed to examine associations between eye movement parameters and postural control indices. Significant correlations were found between eye movement parameters and postural stability indices. Faster and more consistent horizontal eye movements were associated with better postural stability (r = -0.63, p < 0.05). Eye movement speed variability positively correlated with weight distribution indices under normal eyes open (r = 0.65, p < 0.05) and closed (r = 0.59, p < 0.05) conditions. Coordination of horizontal and vertical eye movements positively correlated with postural control (r = 0.69, p < 0.01). Negative correlations were observed between eye movement coordination and Fourier indices in various frequency bands (p < 0.05) and the stability index under different head positions (p < 0.05). The findings provide insights into sensory integration mechanisms underlying balance maintenance and highlight the importance of integrated sensory processing in postural stability. Eye movement assessments have potential applications in balance evaluation and fall risk prediction.

Virtual reality and functional training effect on contractile properties of lower leg muscles and postural stability

Purpose. Tensiomyography is a noninvasive and reliable method to identify the differences in skeletal muscle responses. Poor lower leg muscles cause poor postural stability, leading to the risk of injury in athletes. The study aims to investigate the aftereffect of a six-week virtual reality environment and functional training program on the contractile properties of lower-leg muscles and postural stability index. Material and methods. A comparative pre-test and post-test study design was selected for this study. Twenty-four male athletes were taken part in the study. The participants were randomly divided into a virtual reality intervention-training group (n=12) or a functional training group (n=12). The virtual reality environment training was provided using the CAREN integrated virtual reality system with a D-flow application from Motek. Functional training for static and dynamic postural stability was performed with various open and closed-eye exercises in the physical therapy lab. The contractile properties of lower-leg muscles were measured using tensiomyography. The postural stability index was assessed using a stadiometer. The assessments were performed before and after six weeks of training. A paired sample t-test was used to determine differences between pretest and posttest intervention outcome measures, and sample t-test was also applied to determine differences between groups after six weeks of training. Results. Results indicated significant differences between pretest and posttest measurement in virtual reality training group for displacement (t=2.81, p=.043), (t=-6.92, p=&lt;.001) in gastrocnemius lateral and medial muscle respectively, and sustain time (t=2.29, p=.042) in souls muscle. The postural stability with close eye was significant (t=2.61, p=.024). The functional training group showed significant differences for sustain time (t=-18.86, p=&lt;.001) in gastrocnemius lateral, and relaxation time (=3.24, p=.008), delay time (t=3.07, p=.011), and sustain time (t=-19.74, p=&lt;.001) in gastrocnemius medial, and sustain time (t=3.17, p=.009) in souls muscle. The postural stability was having insignificant differences. Conclusion. The virtual reality environment and functional training, help to improve performance, and tensiomyography could be used to assess and evaluate the parameters that could be helpful for optimizing training load in the performance enhancement process of athletes.

The Effect of Acute Focus of Attention Instructions on Biomechanical Indexes Associated With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Prevention

Background and Aims Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most common and serious injuries of the knee joint, which accounts for 80% of all knee ligament surgeries. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of this injury (70%) occurs in a non-contact form, usually during activities like deceleration, landing, or side cutting. Studies have shown that focus instructions could improve and promote performance. This study aimed to investigate the acute effect of focus instructions on biomechanical indexes associated with ACL injury prevention. Methods In this research, 24 young football players from the two clubs of the Tehran Premier League, Tehran City, Iran, were randomly divided into two groups: external focus attention (n=12) and internal focus attention (n=12). First, the dynamic postural stability index (DPSI), the peak of vertical, anteroposterior, and mediolateral GRF components, and the rate of loading during the jump-landing movement from a box with 30 cm height were calculated using a force plate with a sampling frequency of 1000 Hz. Then, the internal and external focus instructions were taught to the participants, and the two groups performed a posttest to examine the changes. Statistical methods of repeated measures analysis of variance and paired t test were used to evaluate the changes. Results The results showed significant changes in the vertical component and rate of loading variables in both groups of internal and external focus attention (P≤0.05). However, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in the DPSI, anteroposterior and mediolateral GRF. Conclusion The results of this study showed that acute instructions of both internal and external focus attention can improve landing mechanics and landing-related kinetic variables. It seems that the external focus instructions have increased the motor control of the limb, leading to a further reduction of vertical GRF and the load applied to the lower limb compared to the instructions of internal focus, thus reducing the risk of ACL injury.

Effects of Augmented Reality based Dual-Task Proprioceptive Training on Postural Stability, Positioning Sensation and Cognition

This study compared augmented reality (AR)-based proprioception training to traditional therapy to determine if the two tasks together were effective in improving postural stability, proprioception, and cognition. Forty-five healthy adults in their 20s were randomized into three groups: AR-based DT, AR-based proprioceptive exercise, and therapist-supervised exercise. Paired t-test and independent t-test were used to determine the within and between group effects, and the three groups were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni's post hoc analysis. For postural stability, stability index and postural stability improved post-intervention in all groups (p&lt;.05), with no differences between groups (p&gt;.05). positioning sensation improved in all groups (p&lt;.05), with no difference between groups (p&gt;.05). Cognitive parameters showed significant differences in recognition and calculation in all groups after the intervention (p&lt;.05), and no significant differences in ordering (p&lt;.05). Thus, AR-based interventions have shown similar effects to therapists, improving cognitive performance on both tasks, and can be selected in some cases.

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

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

The influence of jump-landing direction on dynamic postural stability following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BackgroundTraditional testing prior to return to sport following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction typically involves jump-landing tasks in the forward direction. As injury is most likely the result of multiplanar neuromuscular control deficits, assessment of dynamic postural stability using landing tasks that require multiplanar stabilization may be more appropriate. The purpose of this study was to examine how dynamic postural stability is affected when performing jump-landing tasks in three different directions. MethodsFifteen athletes [11 females (18.0 ± 3.0 years) and 4 males (18.5 ± 3.1 years)] following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction performed a series of single-limb jump-landing tasks in 3 directions. Individual directional stability indices and a composite dynamic postural stability index were calculated using ground reaction force data and were compared using separate one-way repeated measures ANOVAs. FindingsAll directional stability indices demonstrated a significant main effect for jump-landing direction (medial-lateral P < 0.001, η2p = 0.95; anterior-posterior P < 0.001, η2p = 0.97; vertical P = 0.021, η2p = 0.24). The diagonal jump-landing direction produced increased medial-lateral stability and vertical stability scores, while the forward and diagonal jump-landing directions produced increased anterior-posterior stability scores. There was no significant effect for the composite dynamic stability index score. InterpretationJump-landing direction affects dynamic postural stability in all 3 planes of movement in athletes following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Results indicate the potential need to incorporate multiple jump-landing directions to better assess dynamic postural stability prior to return to sport.

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

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

Correlation between Postural Stability and Lower Extremity Joint Reaction Forces in Young Adults during Incline and Decline Walking

Postural stability may be affected during slope walking, as there are different body kinetics and kinematic responses compared with level walking. Understanding body adaptations toward different inclinations is essential to prevent the risk of injury from falls or slips. This study was conducted to determine the correlations between stability parameters and loading response in terms of joint reaction force at the lower-extremity joints during inclined and declined walking. Twenty male subjects walked in the level, incline, and decline directions on a custom-built platform at three different slope angles (i.e., 5°, 7.5°, and 10°). To determine the ground reaction force (GRF), joint reaction force (JRF), center of pressure (COP), and center of mass (COM), a motion capture system was used to read the data of the ten reflective markers and transfer them to visual three-dimensional (3D) software. Pearson’s correlation test was performed with statistical significance set at p &lt; 0.05 to evaluate the correlation of the required coefficient of friction (RCOF), postural stability index (PSI), and COP-COM distance with the JRF. This study has identified that the JRF changes in opposition to the changes in the RCOF during the initial strike during incline and decline walking, as JRF increases, the RCOF decreases with different strengths of correlation. There is also a strong positive correlation between the PSI and JRF in the proximal–distal direction, where the JRFs change in accordance with the change in the PSI, and the JRF increases with the increment of PSI. In addition, the JRF of the lower extremity also changed in a manner similar to the COP-COM distance in the medial–lateral direction. Overall, each stability parameter was correlated with the JRF of the lower-extremity joints in different directions and strengths. This study demonstrated that slope walking is particularly affected by surface inclination in terms of stability and loading. Therefore, this research can serve as a basis for future studies on slopes, as there is no specific basis for a maximum degree of inclination that is safe and suitable for all applications.

Relationship of Chronic Ankle Instability With Foot Alignment and Dynamic Postural Stability in Adolescent Competitive Athletes.

Competitive adolescent athletes should be aware of the early signs of chronic ankle instability (CAI) and the connection between the condition and performance. To investigate whether CAI is related to foot alignment and morphology as well as dynamic postural stability after a jump landing among adolescent competitive athletes with and without a history of a lateral ankle sprain and CAI. Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Between July 2020 and August 2021, adolescent competitive athletes (N = 85; n = 49 boys; n = 36 girls) were classified into 3 groups using Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) scores: healthy athletes (n = 55), coper athletes (n = 19), and athletes with CAI (n = 11). Results of foot alignment assessments involving the leg-heel angle (LHA) and navicular height, intrinsic foot muscle morphology, dynamic postural stability index (DPSI), and other parameters were compared among the 3 groups. The relationship between the CAIT score and the LHA and dynamic postural stability and instability were examined using multiple linear regression. Compared with the healthy group, the CAI group had a significantly greater LHA (8.73°± 3.22° vs 6.09°± 3.26°; P < .05), higher DPSI (0.336 ± 0.046 vs 0.298 ± 0.035), and higher vertical stability index (0.303 ± 0.048 vs 0.264 ± 0.037; P < .05 for all). Multiple regression analysis showed that the LHA (β = -0.228; P = .033) and DPSI (β = -0.240; P = .025) were significantly associated with the CAIT score . Valgus rearfoot alignment and poorer dynamic postural control were associated with CAI among adolescent athletes.

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

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

Postural control measured before and after simulated ankle inversion landings among individuals with chronic ankle instability, copers, and controls

BackgroundPostural control measured during single-leg stance and single-leg hop stabilization has been used to estimate sensorimotor function in CAI individuals and copers. To date, studies have not used postural control tasks as a way of measuring responses to sudden changes in sensory information after simulated ankle inversion landings. Research questionA cross-sectional study was performed to identify any differences in static and dynamic postural control before and after simulated ankle inversion landings among individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI), copers, and healthy controls. MethodsNineteen CAI individuals, 19 copers, and 19 controls participated in this study. Participants performed 3 static and dynamic balance tasks before and after simulated ankle inversion landings onto a 25° tilted platform from a height of 30 cm. The main outcome measures were the center of pressure (COP) velocity and range from the single-leg stance, as well as the dynamic postural stability index from the single-leg hop stabilization. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare posttest and pretest differences in static and dynamic postural control between groups. ResultsIn the static postural control measures, the CAI group had a higher difference in COP velocity and COP range in the frontal plane (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively) than the coper group. In the dynamic postural control measures, the CAI group demonstrated a higher difference in the vertical stability index (p < 0.05) than the healthy control group. SignificanceCAI individuals have persistent worse postural control after somatosensory modulation due to their inability to adapt to sudden somatosensory modulation. Relative to CAI individuals, copers may have different abilities not only the integration of somatosensory input about ankle inversion modulation, but also the adaptation of the entire motor control system, preventing recurrent ankle sprains after an initial LAS. Therefore, somatosensory modulation may be the indicator of understanding CAI and coper.

The Relationship between Features of Foot Posture, Thickness of Intrinsic Foot Muscles and Dynamic Postural Stability

PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the correlations between foot posture features, intrinsic foot muscles (IFMs) thickness, and dynamic postural stability.METHODS: Forty-one male participants were divided into two groups according to quantified foot postures using the Foot Posture Index (FPI-6) scores: the neutral foot group (FPI-6 score: 0 to +5) and the pronated foot group (FPI-6 score: &gt;+6). The IFMs thickness was measured using ultrasound images of the flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), flexor hallucis brevis (FHB), and abductor hallucis muscles. To investigate the association between IFMs thickness and dynamic postural stability, the Biodex Balance System (BBS) was used in a single-leg stance position with both the eyes open and closed.RESULTS: In the BBS tests, the pronated foot group demonstrated significant results in the eyes-closed condition (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). In particular, the differences between the eyes open and closed conditions in postural stability indices were significantly greater in the pronated foot group than in the neutral foot group (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). No significant differences in IFMs thickness between the two groups were observed; however, some subdomains of the FPI-6 demonstrated significant positive correlations with postural stability indices and significant negative correlations with IFMs thickness (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.05). The talonavicular joint was associated with FDB thickness (R=-0.311). Moreover, the forefoot was correlated with FHB thickness (R=-0.327).CONCLUSIONS: The aforementioned results suggest that dynamic postural stability and IFMs thickness are affected by the foot type. Although no significant differences in IFMs thickness were observed, dynamic postural stability and IFMs thickness reduced as the foot displayed features of pronation. This indicates that postural control ability and IFMs are vulnerable to changes in foot posture.

Transcranial direct current stimulation over dorsolateral prefrontal cortex improves postural stability in non-specific chronic low back pain patients with high fear of pain: A randomized sham-controlled trial.

Deficits in postural stability in response to environmental challenges are seen in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients with high fear of pain (HFP). Hence, it is essential to follow effective approaches to treat postural stability deficits and improve the health status of these patients. The current study aimed to compare the effects of cathodal and anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (c-tDCS and a-tDCS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on postural stability in non-specific CLBP patients with HFP. In this randomized clinical trial study, 75 patients were randomly assigned to left DLPFC a-tDCS, left DLPFC c-tDCS and sham stimulation groups (n= 25 in each group). All groups received a single-session 2mA tDCS for 20 min, but the stimulation was slowly turned off after 30 s in the sham group. Before, immediately, 24 h and 1 week after the interventions, postural stability indices were assessed using a Biodex Balance System. A significant reduction in most indices was shown in both a-tDCS and c-tDCS groups after interventions (immediately, 24 h and 1 week follow-up) during static and dynamic postural tasks compared with the sham tDCS group (p< .01). In addition, some tests showed a significant difference between a-tDCS and c-tDCS (p< .05). The findings indicated positive effects of both a-tDCS and c-tDCS on the left DLPFC, with more efficacy of a-tDCS on postural stability in LBP patients with HFP.

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

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

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

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