Significant Differences In Balance Research Articles

Immediate effects of a vibrating foam roller on dorsiflexion rom, balance, and gait in stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of vibration foam rolling on dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM), balance, and gait in stroke patients. Thirty stroke patients volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to the vibrating foam roller group (n=15) and the foam roller group (n=15). The vibrating foam roller group performed a 30-min foam roller exercise program, with participants subjected to vibration at 28 Hz. The foam roller group performed the same exercise program as the vibrating foam roller group, but without vibration. Dorsiflexion lunge test, limits of stability, and Timed Up and Go were used to evaluate dorsiflexion ROM, balance, and gait before and after each intervention. The results revealed that the vibration foam roller group showed significant differences in dorsiflexion ROM and gait after the intervention, while the foam roller group exhibited a significant difference only in dorsiflexion ROM (P<0.05). In comparisons between the vibration foam roller group and the foam roller group, significant differences were observed in dorsiflexion ROM and gait (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in balance, both before and after the intervention, as well as in the comparisons between the two groups (P>0.05). This study confirmed that a single-session vibrating foam roller exercise program improves dorsiflexion ROM and gait in stroke patients. Further studies with extended exercise program durations are needed to address limitations and explore long-term effects.

Relationship Between Postural Asymmetry, Balance, and Pain in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

BackgroundPrimary symptoms of cerebral palsy (CP), such as spasm and weakness, can lead to secondary musculoskeletal problems. Exploring the interplay and impact of secondary symptoms is essential in CP management. MethodsA total of 56 children (32 males and 24 females) aged eight to 12 years in level I to III of Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) completed The Pediatric Balance Scale and Wong-Baker Faces Scale and the Posture and Postural Ability Scale. Relationships between the three groups were examined using the Kruskal-Wallis test, Tukey test, gamma coefficient, De Somers D, phi coefficient, Cramér V, and one-way analysis of variance. ResultsThere was a significant correlation between balance and postural asymmetry (P < 0.001), and no significant difference in balance was there between the severe and moderate asymmetry groups (P = 0.759) and between the mild asymmetry and no asymmetry groups (P = 0.374). Furthermore, there was a significant relationship between postural asymmetry and each of the variables of pain (P < 0.001) and gross motor function (P = 0.002). Although a meaningful correlation was identified between balance and gross motor function (P < 0.001), the relationship between postural asymmetry and balance in GMFCS levels was not found (P = 0.052, P = 0.052, P = 0.233). Conversely, no significant relationship was detected between pain and gross motor function (P = 0.072). SignificancePostural asymmetry negatively impacts balance and correlates with pain intensity. Addressing postural problems can contribute to pain management and improved balance.

Comparison of a single session of tDCS on cerebellum vs. motor cortex in stroke patients: a randomized sham-controlled trial

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether a single session of trans-cranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the cerebellum and M1 has any advantages over one another or sham stimulation in terms of balance, gait and lower limb function. Methods A total of 66 patients who had experienced their first ever stroke were recruited into three groups for this double-blinded, parallel, randomized, sham-controlled trial: cerebellar stimulation group (CbSG), M1 stimulation group (MSG) and sham stimulation group (SSG). A single session of anodal tDCS with an intensity of 2 mA for a duration of 20 min was administered in addition to gait and balance training based on virtual reality using an Xbox 360 with Kinect. Balance, gait, cognition and risk of fall were assessed using outcome measures before intervention (T0), immediately after intervention (T1) and an hour after intervention (T2). Results Across group analysis of all outcome measures showed statistically non-significant results (p > .05) except for Six Minute Walk Test (p value T0 = .003, p value T1 = .025, p value T2 = .016). The training effect difference showed a significant difference in balance, gait and cognition, as well as cerebral and cerebellar stimulation, in comparison to sham stimulation (p < .05). The risk of falls remained unaffected by any stimulation (p > .05). Conclusions In addition to Xbox Kinect-based rehabilitation training, a single session of anodal tDCS to the M1 or cerebellum may be beneficial for improving lower limb function, balance and gait performance.

슬링과 토구 운동이 사무직 척추질환 환자의 정적 균형과 족부압력에 미치는 영향

The purpose of this study was conducted to find out the effect on balance and foot pressure when performing Sling exercise and Togu exercise in an office worker with a spinal disease. As office workers spend more time working on computers, the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders such as neck pain and shoulder and back pain is also on the rise. Among the various exercise methods, it has been reported that Sling exercise continuously relieves pain in patients with the nervous system and musculoskeletal system, increases posture control and dynamic balance ability, and strengthens the muscles involved in the stability of the torso and joints. Togu exercise activates muscles that are not normally used by exercising on an air-filled ball, providing stimulation of the intrinsic receptor, strengthening inter body support muscle strength, and recognizing the posture of the pelvis. This study was conducted with the Sling exercise group (SEG, n=7) and the Togu exercise group (TEG, n=6) of 13 employees of k university. The results of applying the two exercises are as follows. The significant change between the groups was insignificant, but when Sling exercise was applied, there was a significant difference in balance and foot pressure.

Muscular strength, flexibility and balance analysis in women practicing ballet pilates

Introduction: Ballet Pilates is a way of associating Pilates principles with Classic Ballet movements. The exercises employ body weight as a load, they can be adapted according to physical condition of each one. In a short time of practice, it is possible to observe the results, such as reducing weight, increasing muscle strength and improving posture. Objective: Analyze the muscular strength, flexibility and balance of women who practice Ballet Pilates, comparing them as variables before and after two months of practicing the sport. Methodology: The present study is of intervention and field, of comparative character and quantitative nature. A survey included 14 volunteers practicing the sport, aged 20 to 50 years old, and a data collection was carry out at the Tiradentes University. Data were collect using the Lafayette isometric dynamometer, the Sanny analog fleximeter and the Arkipelago baropodometry platform. Results: According to a strength analysis, muscle gains were observe, especially in the quadriceps, gluteus and calves, with statistical statistics for right quadriceps (p = 0.008) and left gluteus (p = 0.021). In the flexibility variable, differences were observed before and after the activity execution, with positive impact on the following muscle groups: torso (p = 0.004), hip flexors (p &lt;0.001) and hamstrings (p &lt;0.001). No significant difference in balance was find, measured by baropodometry, after two months of performing the Ballet Pilates modality. Conclusion: It was find that the Ballet Pilates modality is capable of promoting muscle strength gain, being observe in the study participants, mainly in the quadriceps and gluteus muscle groups. In addition, it became the flexibility gain exhibited by practitioners of this activity, exerting a positive influence, especially on the torso, hip flexors and hamstrings. As for balance, very expressive results were not observed, due to fact that the students have already presented balance preservation.

Impact of mild COVID-19 on balance function in young adults, a prospective observational study

Balance is of essential importance in human life. The aim of the study is to examine the incidence of balance impairments in young adults who have recovered from mild COVID-19. The study involved 100 subjects, divided into two groups: the study group (50 individuals) comprised subjects who had recovered from mild COVID-19, and the control group (50 individuals) consisted of healthy subjects matched for gender and age. Balance was assessed using a force platform and clinical tests such as: timed up and go test, 15-s step test, sit-to-stand test and 6-min walk test. The assessment on the platform showed greater balance impairments in the trials with eyes closed; more specifically, compared to the controls, in trials with double-leg support the subjects from the study group acquired significantly higher scores in X average (lateral coordinates) (p < 0.05), Path length, V average (average Centre of Foot Pressure Velocity) (p < 0.05) and Area circular (p < 0.01), with even more significant results in trials with single-leg support in X average (p < 0.001), Y average (anterior–posterior coordinates) (p < 0.001) and Path length (p = 0.004). Higher scores in the timed up and go test were found in the study group (p = 0.013). The control group had higher scores in the remaining tests. The current findings show that mild COVID-19 may lead to balance impairments in young adults. Statistically significant differences in balance were found between the subjects in the study group and the healthy controls. Further studies in this area should take into account more age groups, and patients recovered from severe COVID-19, and should investigate long-term consequences of COVID-19 reflected by balance problems.

Dance Rhythms Improve Motor Symptoms in Individuals with Parkinson's Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Evidence-based practices involving dance modalities found in binary (two-beat rhythm) or quaternary (four-beat rhythm) show that dance positively influences the motor aspects of disease. <br/>Aim: This randomized clinical trial aimed to analyze the effect of two dance rhythm (binary and quaternary) on the balance, gait, and mobility in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). <br/>Methods: Thirty-one individuals with PD were randomized into the binary group (n = 18) and the quaternary group (n = 13). Both groups participated in different dance rhythms lasting 12 weeks, twice a week, for 45 minutes. <br/>Results: The binary group showed a significant difference in balance (p = 0.003), freezing of gait (p = 0.007), as well as in the motor aspects of MDS-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), with emphasis on the total values with a score change of 3.23. In the quaternary group, significant differences were found in balance (p = 0.021) with a score change of -2.54 and in the motor aspects of the MDS-UPDRS Part III where the total values stood out with a change of 3.54. <br/>Discussion: When comparing the possible effects of binary and quaternary rhythms on the motor symptoms of individuals with PD, it was demonstrated that binary rhythm improved balance, freezing gait, and UPDRSIII. As for the quaternary rhythm, the benefits were in balance and the UPDRSIII. <br/>Conclusion: The binary and the quaternary rhythm dance protocols positively influenced the motor symptoms of individuals with PD after 12 weeks of intervention.

Strength exercise for balance and gait in HIV-associated distal symmetrical polyneuropathy: A randomised controlled trial.

BackgroundHIV-associated peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common neurological complication associated with HIV infection. Distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN) is the most commonly occurring type, which is associated with symptoms such as numbness, unsteady gait and, in some cases, muscle atrophy and weakness when myelinated nerve fibres are affected. If unmyelinated nerve fibres are affected, a painful neuropathy and autonomic symptoms may occur.ObjectivesThis research study assessed the effects of a strength exercise intervention on balance impairment and gait disturbance amongst individuals living with HIV-associated DSPN.MethodThe study was a single-blinded, randomised controlled trial (RCT) with participants sourced from four HIV centres in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. The intervention was supervised and included progressive resistance exercise (PRE) (three 40-min sessions per week for 12 weeks) using a quadriceps bench (n = 44). The control group (CG) included the non-exercise group (n = 47). The two groups continued to receive routine care. Data were summarised and analysed using inferential statistics (SPSS version 20 program) with the alpha level set at < 0.05.ResultsAt 12 weeks, the results revealed significant improvement with regard to balance performance (p = 0.001) and walking ability (p = 0.001) in the training group. In contrast, no significant differences in balance (P = 0.677) or gait (P = 0.578) were observed in the CG.ConclusionThe findings suggest that PRE is beneficial for balance impairment and gait disturbance caused by neuropathy in persons living with HIV and receiving antiretroviral drugs.

The Cut-Off Score of Four Clinical Tests to Quantify Balance Impairment in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability.

BackgroundBalance impairment is a common consequence of chronic ankle instability (CAI). This study aimed to assess the discriminative validity of four clinical tests for quantifying balance impairment in individuals with CAI.MethodsParticipants were screened for their balance using the single-leg balance test (SLBT) and were assigned to either the positive or the negative SLBT groups. Fifty-four individuals with CAI (N = 27 per group) were recruited and completed four clinical tests including the foot-lift test (FLT), the time-in-balance test (TIBT), the modified star excursion balance test in the posteromedial (mSEBT-PM) direction and the side-hop test (SHT). The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve coupled with Youden index were calculated to determine the optimal cut-off scores of each test.ResultsWe found significant differences in balance between groups for all tests, with good to excellent values for the area under the ROC curve (AUC). All four tests reached good to excellent sensitivity and specificity values and had significant cut-off scores to discriminate balance performance among CAI participants.ConclusionAll four clinical tests can be conducted with their respective cut-off scores to quantify balance impairment in individuals with CAI.

Comparison of the Effect of Corrective Exercises With and Without Suit Therapy on Gait Kinematic and Balance in Autism Children With Toe Walking

Background and Aims: Autism is an evolutional syndrome that causes social and interactional disorders and changes movement patterns. Corrective exercises can positively affect gait and balance in autistic children. The suit therapy is jointed with hooks and elastic bands that balance pressure and support muscles and joints. This study compares the effect of corrective exercise with and without suit therapy on gait kinematic and balance in autistic children with toe walking. Methods: A group of 30 autistic boys with toe walking (Mean±SD: age= 5.7±1.7 years, height= 106.4±19.5 cm, and weight= 20.8±5.8 kg) were chosen voluntarily and purposefully in this study and then randomly assigned into two groups of with and without suit therapy. Both groups received 8 weeks of corrective exercises, including 5 sessions per week, each session for 2 hours. The cases gait kinematic (Tree dimensional movement analysis) and balance (Tinetti) were evaluated in the pre and posttest. Paired and independent t-test were used for statistical analyses using SPSS v. 16. Results: The result revealed a significant difference in the gait kinematic between the two groups. Treatment in the corrective exercises group with suit therapy was significantly more effective in stride length (P=0.001), step length (P=0.001), step width (P=0.021), walking speed (P=0.001), ankle dorsiflexion in stance (P=0.001), and swing (P=0.001) phase than that corrective exercises without suit therapy group. But between these two groups, no significant difference was observed in stride time (P=0.444), cadence (P=0.361), deviation foot (P=0.614), and hip flexion (P=0.135). The results of the study also showed no significant difference in balance (P=0.927) between groups. Conclusion: Corrective exercises with suit therapy are more effective than ones without suit therapy. Therefore, corrective exercises sessions with suit therapy are suggested for autistic boys with toe walking.

Does Regular Dancing Improve Static Balance?

The aim of the study was to compare the static balance of dancers and non-dancers in a bipedal and unipedal stance. Twenty-three female dancers (mean age: 21.3 ± 1.7) and 24 age and sex-matched subjects (mean age 22.3 ± 1.0) participated in this study. A force platform was used to assess balance. The tests on the balance platform were performed in several positions with different foot placement, such as normal standing (NS) eyes open and eyes closed positions, semi-tandem position (ST), tandem position (TP), and one-leg standing (1L) eyes open and eyes closed position. Significant differences in balance between the dancers and the control group, especially in the tandem position and one-leg standing position with eyes closed were found. We observed higher results for the velocity of the COP in the frontal plane in the TP with a dominant limb in front (p = 0.04) and higher results for the velocity of the COP in the frontal plane (p = 0.01) and in the sagittal plane (p < 0.01) in the TP with a dominant limb in front in the control group. We also observed significant differences between groups in the mean velocity of COP sway in the sagittal plane in the 1 L position with eyes closed (p = 0.04). We concluded that dancing regularly for several years improves static balance.

Sex and Age Comparisons in Neuromuscular And Biomechanical Characteristics of the Knee in Young Athletes.

BackgroundThe identification of risk factors for injury is a key step for musculoskeletal injury prevention in youth sports. Not identifying and correcting for injury risk factors may result in lost opportunity for athletic development. Physical maturation and sex affect these characteristics, which may indicate the need for both age and sex-based injury prevention programs.Hypothesis/PurposeThis study examined age and sex differences in knee strength, static balance, jump height, and lower extremity landing biomechanics in school- and high school-age athletes.Study DesignCross-sectionalMethodsForty healthy school aged (10.8±0.8 yrs) and forty high school (16.8±0.8 yrs) athletes completed isokinetic knee flexion and extension strength tests, single-leg static balance and single-leg vertical stop jump tasks.ResultsHigh school athletes were significantly stronger (~67% and 35% stronger for males and females, respectively) and jumped higher (regardless of sex) compared to school age athletes. High school males had worse balance (~28%) compared to their younger counterparts. High school females had lower strength (~23%) compared to males but had better balance (~46%). Conclusion: Maturation had different effects on the variables analyzed and sex differences were mainly observed after maturation. These differences may be minimized through appropriate age and sex specific training programs.Levels of Evidence3aClinical RelevanceNeuromuscular and biomechanical differences between sex and age groups should be accounted for in injury prevention and rehabilitation. Inadequate training may be a primary factor contributing to injuries in a young athletic population. When designing training programs for long term athlete development, programs should be dependent on decrements seen at specific time points throughout maturation.What is known about the subject: Generally, both males and females get stronger and jump higher as they get older but the results comparing balance and biomechanics between genders or across age groups have been mixed.What this study adds to existing knowledge: The current study looks at multiple neuromuscular and biomechanical variables in male and female participants at different maturation statuses. The current data supports the significant changes observed in strength and jump height, as both genders age, but the data also demonstrates significant differences in balance between age groups in males and between genders in balance and knee flexion angles.

The Effect of Gaseous Ozone Therapy in Conjunction with Periodontal Treatment on Glycated Hemoglobin Level in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Unmasked Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: It is established that inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) by promoting insulin resistance and impaired beta cell function in the pancreas. Among the hypothesized independent risk factors implicated in the pathogenetic basis of disease, periodontal infection has been proposed to promote an amplification of the magnitude of the advanced glycation end product (AGE)-mediated upregulation of cytokine synthesis and secretion. These findings suggest an interrelationship between periodontal disease and type 2 diabetes, describing poor metabolic control in subjects with periodontitis as compared to nondiabetic subjects and more severe periodontitis in subjects with T2DM as compared to a healthy population, with a significant positive correlation between periodontal inflammatory parameters and glycated hemoglobin level. Results from clinical trials show that periodontal treatment is able to improve glycemic control in subjects with diabetes. Many therapeutic strategies have been developed to improve periodontal conditions in conjunction with conventional treatment, among which ozone (O3) is of specific concern. The principal aim of this trial was to compare the clinical effectiveness of an intensive periodontal intervention consisting of conventional periodontal treatment in conjunction with ozone gas therapy in reducing glycated hemoglobin level in type 2 diabetic patients and standard periodontal treatment. Methods: This study was a 12-month unmasked randomized trial and included 100 patients aged 40–74 years older, with type 2 diabetes mellitus diagnosed. All the patients received conventional periodontal treatment, or periodontal treatment in conjunction with ozone gas therapy in a randomly assigned order (1:1). The primary outcome was a clinical measure of glycated hemoglobin level at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months from randomization. Secondary outcomes were changes in periodontal inflammatory parameters. Results: At 12 months, the periodontal treatment in conjunction with ozone gas therapy did not show significant differences than standard therapy in decreasing glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) level and the lack of significant differences in balance is evident. Conclusions: Although the change was not significant, periodontal treatment in conjunction with the gaseous ozone therapy tended to reduce the levels of glycated hemoglobin. The study shows a benefit with ozone therapy as compared to traditional periodontal treatment.

Twelve Weeks of Whole Body Vibration Training Improve Regucalcin, Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Postmenopausal Women: A Pilot Study.

(1) Background: Regucalcin or senescence marker protein 30 (SMP30) is a Ca2+ binding protein discovered in 1978 with multiple functions reported in the literature. However, the impact of exercise training on SMP30 in humans has not been analyzed. Aging is associated with many detrimental physiological changes that affect body composition, functional capacity, and balance. The present study aims to investigate the effects of whole body vibration (WBV) in postmenopausal women. (2) Methods: A total of 13 women (aged 54.3 ± 3.4 years) participated in the study. SMP30, body composition (fat mass, lean mass, and bone mass) and physical fitness (balance, time up and go (TUG) and 6-min walk test (6MWT)) were measured before and after the 12 weeks of WBV training. (3) Results: The WBV training program elicited a significant increase in SPM30 measured in plasma (27.7%, p = 0.004) and also in 6MWT (12.5%, p < 0.001). The WBV training also significantly reduced SPM30 measured in platelets (38.7%, p = 0.014), TUG (23.1%, p < 0.001) and total body fat mass (4.4%, p = 0.02). (4) Conclusions: There were no significant differences in balance, lean mass or bone mass. The present study suggests that 12 weeks of WBV has the potential to improve SPM30, fat mass, TUG and 6MWT in postmenopausal women.

Evaluation of resistance training program patients with multiple sclerosis

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a 10-week resistance training program in patients. Methodology: A group of eleven subjects (7 women and 4 men) with multiple sclerosis with a range in the “Expanded disability status scale” score between 6 and 8, mean age 46.45 ± 6.89 years-old, participated in this investigation. It was carried out a 10-week resistance program, twice per week, complemented with a physiotherapy session. Sample was divided in walking group and in the non-walking group. Measurements of strength, balance, body composition and quality of life were taken before and after the intervention program. Results: Significant differences were found in the variables load (kg), total medium strength (N), maximum strength (N), total medium power (W) in the bench press and squat in the walking group and in shoulder extension test in the non-walking group; and interpersonal relationships, physical and psychological health, by the application of “WHOQOL -BREF” questionnaire. There were no significant differences in balance and body composition variables. Conclusion: The 10-week strength training program in patients with multiple sclerosis with a score between 6 and 8 on the scale “Expanded disability status scale” showed improvements at a psychological, social and physical levels. About strength variables, it was found improvements that could improve functionality in the activities of daily life. Furthermore, balance test and body composition did not show significant changes in both groups.

Characteristics of Lower Limb Muscle Strength, Balance, Mobility, and Function in Older Women with Urge and Mixed Urinary Incontinence: An Observational Pilot Study

Purpose: After the age of 65, urinary incontinence (UI) occurs in one of every two women. A positive correlation between falls and urgency UI (UUI) or mixed UI (MUI) has also been identified. However, lower extremity impairments in older women with UUI or MUI have not been thoroughly investigated. The primary goal of this study was to compare lower limb strength, balance, mobility, and function in older women with and without UUI or MUI. The secondary goal was to evaluate the association between these measurements and UI severity. Method: A total of 40 older women with and without UUI or MUI completed standardized tests for lower limb strength (knee flexor or extensor dynamometry, 30-second sit-to-stand test), balance (single-leg stance test, Four Square Step Test, Activities-specific Balance Confidence questionnaire), mobility (10-metre walk test, 6-minute walk test), and function (Human Activity Profile questionnaire, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey). Results: Significant differences in balance and mobility were observed between the two groups. Women with UI had shorter single-leg stance times, lower balance confidence scores, and slower gait speeds. Conclusions: The results from this pilot study suggest that high-functioning older women with UUI or MUI have balance and mobility impairments. More studies are needed to confirm these results. By reporting power calculations for sample size, this pilot study provides a useful basis on which to design and conduct larger studies.

Effects of a smart phone-based game on balance ability and dizziness in healthy adult individuals

Many people use smartphone these days. There are many studies on the effects of smartphones on our bodies, but there is a lack of research on balance and dizziness. The purpose of this study was to determine how a healthy person’s balance and dizziness is affected by using smart devices. Twenty four healthy adults in their twenties were assigned to the 10-minute and 20-minute group based on the duration of the smartphone game. To evaluate the effects of smartphone games on the balance and dizziness of the participants, we evaluated their balance and dizziness before and after playing the smartphone game. Balance was measured using a force plate (Wii Balance Board, Balancia version 2.0, Mintosys Inc., Seoul, KR) and dizziness was measured using the Simulator sickness Questionnaire (SSQ). There was a significant difference in balance among both groups before and after playing the smartphone game (p .05). Regarding dizziness, the SSQ score indicated minimal symptoms in the 10-minute group, while it revealed significant symptoms in the 20-minute group. In this study, playing a smartphone game for 10 minutes and 20 minutes was found to affect balance. Further, it was found that playing a smartphone game for 20 minutes may lead to a significant level of dizziness.

CSM 2019 American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy Poster Presentations (Abstracts SPO1–SPO132)

CSM 2019 American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy Poster Presentations (Abstracts SPO1–SPO132)

THE INFLUENCE OF SENSORIMOTOR TRAINING MODALITIES ON BALANCE, STRENGTH, JOINT FUNCTION, AND PLANTAR FOOT SENSITIVITY IN RECREATIONAL ATHLETES WITH A HISTORY OF ANKLE SPRAIN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED PILOT STUDY

Ankle sprains frequently result in persistent sensorimotor deficits. Sufficient evidence of effects of sensorimotor training using unstable devices on physical functions is lacking. There is no insight as to whether simultaneous tactile stimulation of plantar foot mechanoreceptors using textured surfaces may influence outcomes in people with a history of ankle sprain. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential effects of sensorimotor training using unstable textured surfaces on balance, strength, joint function, and plantar sensitivity in recreational athletes with a history of ankle sprain. Nineteen recreational athletes (6 females, 13 males; mean age: 29 ± 7 years) with a history of ankle sprain and self-reported sensation of instability participated. Self-reported function of the ankle joint, plantar cutaneous detection threshold to light touch, balance during single-leg stance as well as maximal isometric strength of the ankle joint in eversion and inversion were measured. Participants were randomly allocated to either a training group using unstable textured surfaces or a training group using unstable smooth surfaces or a control group. Outcome measurements were repeated after six weeks of training and at follow-up after 10 weeks. Within and between group differences were analyzed using ANOVA, Friedman tests, or Kruskal Wallis tests (p<0.05) and post-hoc tests with Bonferroni correction. Correlations between outcome-parameters from baseline measurements were analyzed using Spearman's rho (p<0.05). No significant between-group differences in all outcome measures were detected. However, a significant increase of strength in eversion was found for the training group using textured surfaces after 10 weeks (p = 0.01). A moderate correlation existed between plantar detection threshold of metatarsal head (MT) I and strength of inversion (r = 0.51, p<0.05) before training across all groups. There were moderate negative correlations between balance parameters and strength in eversion (r = -0.57 - -0.64, p≤0.01) as well as plantar detection thresholds at MT V (r = -0.48 - -0.62, p<0.05) at baseline across all groups. A six-week sensorimotor training using unstable smooth and textured surfaces demonstrated no significant differences in balance, strength in eversion and inversion, plantar foot sensitivity, and self-reported ankle instability between training groups and the control group in recreational athletes with a history of ankle sprain. A better score on balance testing seems to correlate with an increase in eversion ankle strength and a decreased plantar sensitivity at MT V. Level IIb.

Effects of sport on static balance in athletes with visual impairments.

Proper balance is crucial for postural control and physical activity performance. Issues related to balance as well as effects of various factors on balance are in the center of attention of specialists in a number of fields including sport. Research results show that every sports discipline demands different motor preparation (including balance) and persons with visual impairments exhibit worse balance compared to their sighted counterparts. Therefore, this study sought to assess static balance in athletes with visual impairments with reference to the type of sport they did, the length of their training experience, training loads and dysfunction level. The study involved 57 men (shooters, tandem cyclists, football and goalball players) with visual impairments. AMTI stabilographic platform was used to assess static balance. The study participants performed the following tests: standing on both feet with eyes open and closed and single-leg stance with eyes open and closed. Balance in tests performed while standing on both feet did not differentiate athletes in terms of the sport they did. Static balance of athletes with visual impairments significantly differs in the single leg stance. Better balance was observed in tests with eyes open. Taking into consideration sports disciplines practiced by the athletes, significant differences in balance in single left leg tests with eyes open and closed were observed. Athletes training more than five hours per week manifested better balance compared to those who practiced less than five hours per week. The findings indicate that athletes performing particular sports may use strategies of maintaining balance that result from the structure of these sports. The lack of differences in balance among athletes with different degrees of dysfunction may indicate their high fitness levels and show how balance is affected by physical activity performance. Results of the analysis of balance with regard to the length of training experience may suggest that it is not this factor but rather the quality of training that may exert an influence on this ability.