Static Balance Scores Research Articles

A Comparison of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises and Spinal Stabilization Exercises in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence.

The objective was to compare the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercise (PFME) and spinal stabilization exercise (SSE) on urinary symptoms, pelvic floor muscle strength (PFMS), quality of life (QoL), core stability, balance, spinal posture, and perception of subjective improvement (PSI) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Patients were randomly divided into PFME (n = 25) and SSE (n = 25) groups. The exercises of both groups was applied 3days a week for 8weeks. Urinary symptoms, PFMS, QoL, core stability, balance, spinal posture, and PSI were assessed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and pad test, the Modified Oxford Scale (MOS), the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ), the Sahrmann test, the Biodex Balance System, a Spinal Mouse device, and a Likert-type scale respectively. The ICIQ-SF, pad test, KHQ, and static balance scores of both groups decreased, whereas the MOS and Sahrmann scores increased (p < 0.05). All balance scores and sacral angles decreased in the SSE group (p < 0.05). The KHQ-Physical and KHQ-Emotional scores decreased more in the PFME group than in the SSE group, whereas core stability increased more and sacral angle decreased more in the SSE group than in the PFME group (p < 0.05). The PSI were similar (p > 0.05). Both PFME and SSE were effective in improving urinary symptoms, PFMS, QoL, and PSI in women with SUI. SSE was superior to PFME in improving core stability, balance, and sacral position. SSE may be an alternative method in the treatment of SUI.

The Impact of Hemsball Training on Balance and Punto (Approaching) Scores in Boccia Athletes

This study aimed to investigate the impact of an 8-week hemsball training on the development of balance and punto (approaching the target) performance in athletes aged 12-14 who play boccia in Bingöl province teams and train for more than 7 hours per week. The sample consisted of athletes who met the aforementioned criteria. The study involved 30 athletes, with 15 in the control group and 15 in the experimental group, who voluntarily played boccia. The experimental group received 60 minutes of hemsball training followed by boccia training, while the control group only received boccia training. Anthropometric measurements, including height, body weight, and BMI, as well as measurements of static and dynamic balance and punto (approach to target) scores, were taken before and after the 8-week exercise period. The data was evaluated using the SPSS 25 package program. The pre-test and post-test distributions of the study data were examined for each group, and normality and homogeneity of variances were determined using the Mauchly Sphericity Test and Levene test. Based on the test results, the dependent variables within each group were compared using the Paired-Sample T-test. The significance of the results was evaluated at a p-value of less than 0.05. The study found no significant difference in the mean values of height, body weight, and BMI of the experimental group after the 8-week hemsball training program (p&gt;0.05). According to the data analysis results regarding the static and dynamic balance measurements of the hemsball training application, a significant difference at the p&lt;0.05 level was found in the pre-test and post-test comparisons of the experimental group in the majority of the static and dynamic balance variables. No statistical difference was found in the control group and the between-group comparisons. According to the data analysis results regarding the Punto score measurements, a significant difference at the p&lt;0.05 level was found in the pre and post-test comparisons of the experimental group in the punto score variable. No difference was found for the control group. Similarly, no statistical difference was observed between the groups. As a result, it can be concluded that training with hemsball has a positive effect on the performance of young boccia athletes in static and dynamic balance and the punto score.

Acute Effect of Single-Session Cerebellar Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Static and Dynamic Balance in Healthy Volunteers.

Several studies have shown the positive effect of cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (ctDCS) on balance in patients and older adults. However, in healthy volunteers, the results are conflicting. We aimed to investigate the immediate effect of anodal ctDCS on the dynamic-static balance in healthy, non-athletic young adults due to the possible benefits for sports performance. Twenty-one healthy volunteers participated in two consecutive 20 min sessions of ctDCS (2 mA current intensity), with 1-week intervals (anodal ctDCS-sham ctDCS). Flamingo and Y-Balance tests were used to evaluate the static and dynamic balances before and after the ctDCS. A Continuous Performance Test (CPT) was used to evaluate the changes in sustained attention, impulsivity, and vigilance. A repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the changes in balance scores, reaction time, omission, and commission numbers. There were no statistically significant differences in dynamic and static balance scores and in CPT parameters between conditions. In conclusion, there was no immediate neuromodulation effect of anodal ctDCS to improve balance performance in healthy, young individuals. Furthermore, no evidence was found to support the use of cerebellar tDCS to improve sports performance.

The influence of quadriceps and hamstring strength on balance performance

Background and Study Aim. Muscular strength and balance are important components of athletic performance, and the muscles around the knee (Quadriceps and Hamstrings) provide joint stability when the knee is in motion. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between quadriceps/hamstring (H/Q) muscle strength, Hamstring/Quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratio and balance performance. Material and Methods. Ten male volunteers with an average age of 21.60±2.11 years, height 176.40±4.67 cm, and body weight 76.50±8.85 kg, who were students of the Faculty of Sports Sciences. Performance tests included dynamic and static balance using the Biodex Balance System and isokinetic strength using the Cybex Humac NORM®. Results. Statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) results in dynamic balance scores were found in the correlation of H/Q ratio and overall stability index (OSI) in the left leg (r =-0.645), and in the correlation of peak torque hamstring and anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) in the right leg (r =0.671). Statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) results in static balance scores were found in the correlations of peak torque quadriceps with OSI (r=-0.760) and anterior-posterior stability index (APSI) (r=-0.650) in the right leg. No statistically significant results were found for the left leg in the static balance scores. Conclusions. As a result of the study, the relationship between quadriceps and hamstring strength and H/Q ratios and balance performance without ignoring the fact that balance is a complex feature involving the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems. It can be said that muscle strength is an important factor in balance performance based on our study and other sources.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Fahr’s Disease: A Case Report

Fahr's disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by symmetrical and bilateral calcification of the basal ganglia. The purpose of this case report is to evaluate the effects of physiotherapy and rehabilitation program on a patient with Fahr's disease. Biodex Balance System®, Functional Reach Test, Six Minute Walk Test, Short Form 36, Beck Depression Inventory, Barthel Index, and bilateral ankle goniometric measurements were assessed prior to and after completion of the 12-week physiotherapy program. The improvement was observed in static and dynamic balance scores, functional capacity, health-related quality of life, performance in activities of daily living, and depressive symptoms. Physiotherapy may be recommended in patients with Fahr's disease to increase the quality of life by maximizing functional capability and preventing or minimising secondary complications. The long-term effects of physiotherapy should be investigated in more depth in the future.

The effects of Kinesio taping on static and dynamic balance in children with down syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

Aim This study aimed to determine the effects of Kinesio tape applied to the plantar soles on static and dynamic balance in children with Down syndrome (DS). Materials and Methods The study was carried out in children with DS. The participants were grouped as Kinesio Taping (KT) (n = 12, DS) and Sham Taping (ST) (n = 12, DS). The Functional Reach Test (FRT) was used to evaluate functional balance and the Fast-Timed Up and Go (FAST-TUG) test to evaluate functional balance and capacity. The Modified Clinical test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (MCTSIB) was used to evaluate static balance. For both groups, all the assessments were made three times: at baseline (T0), right after the taping application (T1), and 40–45 minutes later (T2). Results Baseline FAST-TUG, FRT, and Eyes Open (EO) and Closed (EC) Sway velocity scores of the KT (medians- FAST-TUG:7.75 s, FRT:23.90 cm, EO: 0.70 deg/s, EC: 0.60 deg/s) and ST (medians-FAST-TUG:7.98 s, FRT:24 cm, EO: 0.85 deg/s, EC: 0.95 deg/s) groups were similar (p >0.05). Intragroup comparisons showed that FAST-TUG and FRT scores improved after the taping compared with T0 values in both KT (KT (FAST-TUG:7.75s-FRT:23.90cm)/KT1(FAST-TUG:7.55 s-FRT:28.25cm), KT(FAST-TUG:7.75s-FRT:23.90cm)/KT2(FAST-TUG:6.85s-FRT:27.50cm)) and ST groups (ST(FAST-TUG:7.98s-FRT:24cm)/ST1(FAST-TUG:7,95s-FRT:26.40cm), ST(FAST-TUG:7.98s-FRT:24cm)/ST2(FAST-TUG:7.26s-FRT:26.15cm)) (p < 0.05), while the sway velocity values were similar before and after the taping (p > 0.05). Conclusions Taping on the plantar soles of children with DS may be affecting the immediate dynamic balance scores while it actually did not affect the static balance scores independent of the technique used. The interpretation of the results of this study should be made with caution. Further studies with long-term evaluations are needed.

THE EFFECT OF TRUNK EXTENSORS AND ABDOMINAL MUSCLE FATIGUE ON STATIC AND DYNAMIC BALANCE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of static fatigue of trunk extensor and abdominal muscle groups on static and dynamic balance components. The study sample consisted of 40 healthy volunteers. Lumbar erector spinae, multifidus, and latissimus dorsi, external oblique, rectus abdominis and internal oblique muscles were measured on the dominant side. Dynamic and static balances were measured before and after the test protocol following EMG analysis. Pre-test and post-test static and dynamic balance scores showed that there was a statistically significant difference in OE (open-eyed) static balance values between the experimental and control groups (p&lt;.01). There was a statistically significant difference in ATE (Average track error) scores between male and female participants (p&lt;.05). There was a statistically significant difference in mean coordinated fatigue values of agonist and antagonist muscle groups in the Biering-Sørensen position between male and female participants (p&lt;.05). Deterioration was observed in participants’ OE static balance, indicating that OE static balance deterioration occurred again in the OE position. There was a statistically significant difference in co-fatigue values of abdominal muscles between the two groups.

The effects of lower extremity static muscle fatigue on balance components

BackgroundThe body exhibits dynamic and static movements in response to the changes in the center of gravity in some positions. Balance plays a key role in all sports branches and daily life because it can control the lowest energy consumption and muscle activation.ObjectivesThis study investigated the effects of lower extremity static muscle fatigue on static and dynamic balance components.Design/methodsThe sample consisted of 40 healthy volunteers aged 18–24 years. Participants took part in an isometric fatigue protocol for lower extremity muscles. A squat position was used for static fatigue for lower extremity muscles. Measurements were performed in a squat press for 25 s, with the knee at a 90-degree angle and a load of about 30% of the participant's weight isometrically. The protocol was repeated five times. The participant was allowed to rest for two minutes between each repetition. The muscles and their antagonists that contracted most actively during the squat press exercise were vastus lateralis obliquus, rectus femoris, tibialis anterior, biceps femoris, semi tendineus, and lateral gastrocnemius. Electromyography (EMG) measurements were conducted on these muscles bilaterally and motion analysis system was used to standardize the 90-degree angle of the knee joint.ResultsThere was a significant difference between pre-test and post-test Eyes Open (EO) static balance scores, pre- and post-exercise post-test dynamic balance scores between non-athletes and athletes, pre- and post-exercise post-test dominant leg EO, and pre-test non-dominant leg between non-athletes and athletes (p < .05). There was a significant difference in the Median Frequency (MF) (Hz) values of the dominant leg agonist rectus femoris (p < .05) and the antagonist muscle semi tendineus (p < .05) scores during isometric squat press between athletes and non-athletes.ConclusionsWe need different applications to understand the mechanisms underlying balance and discover athletes' potential. Lower extremity proprioception exercises have positive effects on static body balance parameters.

EFFECT OF CORE STRENGTH TRAINING PROGRAM ON ANAEROBIC POWER, SPEED AND STATIC BALANCE IN VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the core strength training program applied to volleyball players on anaerobic power, speed and static balance. A total of 18 male volleyball players between the ages of 18-22, who regularly practice volleyball, participated in our study voluntarily. The subjects were divided into two different groups as the experimental group (n=9, age: 19.41±2.48) and the control group (n=9, age: 21.12±2.32). The control group continued their normal volleyball training. In the experimental group, in addition to volleyball training, a core strength training program was applied 3 days a week for 6 weeks. Core exercises are known as Mountain Climbers, Bicycle Crunch, Leg Raises, Russian Twist, Side Plank, Bridge, Abdominal Crunch, Jack Knife, Superman, Plank Jack were performed on the experimental group. Static balance scores were measured with the Biodex Balance System balance test device. A speed test (30 m) was applied. Anaerobic power was measured with the vertical jump test. Independent Samples T-Test was used for statistical evaluation between the experimental and control groups. Paired Samples T-Test was used for in-group comparisons. After the core training program was applied to the experimental group, significance was determined in the speed, anaerobic power and static balance scores (p&amp;lt;0.05). There was a significant difference between the groups in speed, anaerobic power and static balance scores in favor of the experimental group (p&amp;lt;0.05). As a result, it can be said that the core strength training program applied to volleyball players has a positive effect on speed, anaerobic power and static balance scores.&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; Article visualizations:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="/-counters-/edu_01/0959/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Yoga Exercise Intervention Improves Balance Control and Prevents Falls in Seniors Aged 65.

IntroductionBody balance control represents a key factor preventing falls and subsequent injuries in seniors aged 65+. Intervention based on yoga exercises seem to be effective in improving balance.ObjectiveThe objective is to analyse and compare changes in static, dynamic, and total balance scores, changes in body composition and social indices as effects of yoga-based intervention.MethodsA total of 500 participants (234 men aged 74.5 SD±7.74 and 266 women aged 76.9 SD±7.23) were assessed using the Tinetti Balance Assessment Tool, the InBody 230 bioimpedance body composition analyser, and the SF-36 Health Survey, applied to pre and post-testing. The experimental group (n=262; 122 males; 140 females) underwent a four-week yoga-based intervention, 30 minutes daily, while the control group (n=238; 112 males; 126 females) underwent its usual daily programme at senior homes or centres. The ANOVA model, consisting of the Group, Stage, Subject and Group × Stage interaction factors, was used for data evaluation.ResultsIntervention led to improvements in the static, dynamic and total balance scores in the experimental group compared to the control group. The results of SF-36 showed positive changes in the psychosocial aspects of health, such as promoting of calmness and happiness in male seniors and reducing fatigue, nervousness and depression in female seniors. The post-intervention decrease in body fat percentage and increase in muscle mass in seniors is discussed.ConclusionsThe four-week yoga-based intervention had positive effects on the static, dynamic and total balance scores, body composition and social status.

Static and Dynamic Balance and Injury Prevalence in Snowboard Instructors

Background. Snowboarding is a quite popular winter sport, though associated with the risk of injury.&#x0D; Aim: to determine the relationship between sport injuries and static and dynamic balance in snowboard instructors.&#x0D; Methods. The study included snowboard instructors from Ontario, Canada. Questionnaires were given before and after the winter season to obtain injury history. Static balance was evaluated with a Wii Balance Board. Dynamic balance was evaluated using the Y balance test. The results were compared between different genders, age and days on-snow per season.&#x0D; Results. Male snowboard instructors had, on average, higher static balance scores than the females. Both male and female scores for testing with eyes closed were significantly lower than with eyes open. The female snowboard instructors had, on average, higher dynamic balance scores than the males. However, for eyes closed testing, female snowboarders’ scores were noticeably better than the males’ scores. Nine of out twenty snowboard instructors had sustained one or more injuries in the past snowboarding season. One female and one male sustained two injuries each, and in total there were ten injuries amongst twenty snowboarders.&#x0D; Conclusions. There was no significant difference between prevalence of injury and balance amongst different genders.&#x0D; Keyword: snowboarding, sports injuries, static balance, dynamic balance.

The effect of core strength training on flexibility and balance in sedentary healthy young individuals

Background: The aim of this study is to examine the effect of core strength training on the static and dynamic balance and flexibility of the sedentary young indivudals. Material and methods: ‪‪41 healthy sedentary students participated in the study (age=21.56±1.05; height=171.90±8.18 cm; body weight=66.63±11.99 kg). Training was applied for 20–30 minutes a day, 2 days a week for 6 weeks. The sit-and-reach test, lateral bending test, hip flexion flexibility test, and the static and dynamic balance scores were used for outcome measures, which were calculated using the Balance System SD (Korebalance Premier-19 Systems Inc. USA). Results: Statistically significant increases were observed in the flexibility tests and dynamic balance parameters between before and after training (p&lt;0.05). In static balance, there was no significant difference between the preliminary and final values. Conclusions: ‪6-week training was effective in increasing dynamic balance and flexibility, but had no effect on static balance. In the light of this information, we think that training should be a part of life, especially when considering functions that require dynamic balance such as walking in sedentary young individuals. We think that this study is important in terms of preventing injuries of young individuals who do/will do sports recreationally.

Dynamic and static postural control among fighter pilots with spinal sagittal plane deformities

BackgroundFighter pilots are at high risk for sagittal deformities because they are exposed to in-flight gravitational forces. These patients have reduced proprioception and are susceptible to imbalance. The present study was conducted to assess the dynamic and static postural control among fighter pilots with kyphosis and lordosis. MethodsThis is a causal-comparative study, which was conducted on 40 employed active fighter pilots during 2019. Our aim was to identify their sagittal plane deformity for complementary medical examinations, determine their flight status and reduce the possible related air accident. First, lordosis and kyphosis angles were measured in the standing position. Then, the static balance was measured using the one-leg standing test with the eyes open and closed. Dynamic balance was measured using the star excursion balance test in eight directions with a total of 16 unilateral squats. ResultsDynamic balance in the hypo-kyphosis was significantly different in all directions, except for postero-lateral and lateral. No significant difference was obtained between the hyper- and hypo-lordosis in dynamic balance in all directions. The mean static balance scores in the hyper-kyphosis group were significantly more than that in the hypo-kyphosis group. There was no significant difference between the hyper- and hypo-lordosis participants with respect to static balance. ConclusionsThe hypo-kyphosis had a significantly higher dynamic balance in all directions, except for posterolateral and lateral, compared to the hyper-kyphosis group. No significant static and dynamic balance differences were observed between the patients with hyper- and hypo-lordosis. The static balance was higher in the hypo-kyphosis rather than hyper-kyphosis under the eyes open and closed. The patients with hyper-lordosis had a higher static balance, rather than hyper-kyphosis.

High intensity power training in middle-aged women with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease: a case series

Background/aims High-intensity power training has been shown to be effective in improving muscular capabilities, functional performance and health-related quality of life in populations with physical impairments. However, the effectiveness of high-intensity power training in people with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease remains uncertain. This case series investigated the effects of high-intensity power training on muscle performance, function and health-related quality of life in middle-aged women with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Methods Four women (age 51–58 years) with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A participated in 8 weeks of supervised high-intensity power training. Results All participants improved strength of the right hip abductors (46.7–109.7%) and left hip abductors (27.3–128.6%), maximal gait speed (2.3–9.1%), static balance (0.7–4.9%), tandem walk (−3.3 to −58.5%), and mental component scores on the Short Form 36 Health Status Survey (0.8–27.6%). Adherence to high-intensity power training was 100% and only one minor adverse event related to the intervention was reported. Conclusions Although promising, larger controlled studies are indicated to confirm the safety and efficacy of high-intensity progressive resistance and power training in this cohort.

Relationship between functional movement screening and static balance scores: Increasing the educational level of elite female wrestlers

The importance of balance is considerably high in many sports that require struggle and close contact such as wrestling. Some losses in maintaining the balance due to the movements requiring high intensity during competitions and increase in the risk of injury due to these losses may occur in wrestling athletes. The aim of this study is to Increase the educational level of elite female wrestlers by examining the relationship between Functional Movement Screening Test Scores and static balance performance scores of elite young female wrestlers. 19 elite female wrestlers having average age of 22.94 ± 2.67 years, body weight 61.63 ± 7.25 kg, height 165.37 ± 5.17 cm and BMI 22.46 ± 1.60kg / m2 participated in the study. Functional Movement Screen Test ™ (FMST™) battery was used in determining the functional movements of the participants, while Tecnobody Prokin 200 Bergamo/Italy was used to determine the total postural stability index values. All static balance measurements were evaluated as standing Double-Leg Eyes Open (DLEO), Eyes Open Single-Leg Dominant Non-Dominant (EOSL-DM and EOSL-ND). Since higher stability index values indicate lower stability, the participants were found to have a negative correlation between non-dominant leg static balance and HS. SM. and TSPU, and between dominant leg static balance and HS. SM. and TSPU. In addition, it was found out that, there was a negative correlation between non-dominant leg static balance, dominant leg static balance and double leg static balance and the FMST™ scores of the participants. The results of this research can be very effective in improving the educational process in the field of wrestling.

The effect of diurnal rhythms on static and dynamic balance performance

Abstract Study aim: The purpose of this research was to examine the effects of different times of day on static and dynamic balance performance. Material and methods: Thirty male individuals (age 22 ± 1.2 years, BMI 23.4 ± 1.3 kg/m2, height 178.5 ± 6.52 cm) volunteered for the study. The participants performed static and dynamic balance tests at 10:00, 15:00, and 20:00. Static and dynamic balance were measured using Y Balance Test (YBT) and the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS). One-factor repeated measures ANOVA with the LSD post-hoc procedure was performed to examine balance changes in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Results: Results indicated a significant difference in static balance scores at different times of day (p &lt; 0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicates that mean of errors in afternoon exhibits significantly smaller than those of morning (p = 0.024), and evening (p = 0.029). Other results showed significant differences in dynamic balance at different times of day (p &lt; 0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicates that means of reaching distance in afternoon exhibits significantly larger than those of morning (p = 0.032), and evening (p = 0.026). Conclusions: The results provide strong evidence about the effect of different times of day on performance.

Impact of Neck Proprioception and Central Sensitization on Balance Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain

Context: Currently, multiple researches demonstrate that proprioception of the neck has a favorable effect and a direct association with balance in individuals with chronic neck pain (CNP). However, there is a paucity of the literature that has attempted to quantify the impact of proprioception on balance in CNP patients and to determine the function of central nervous system sensitization (CS) in CNP patients. Aims: The goal of this study was to determine the variance component of proprioception on balance in CNP patients and to examine if there was a difference between centrally sensitized and nonsensitized CNP patients. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: Thirty-seven patients with CNP were assessed for proprioception, static and dynamic balance was using head repositioning accuracy (HRA) test, Brief Balance Evaluation Systems Test, step test, four-step square test, and Y-balance test. Disability and nervous system sensitization was assessed using the Neck Pain and Disability Scale and central sensitization inventory (CSI). Statistical Analysis Used: Kolmogrov–Smirnov test, Pearson correlation coefficient was used for statistical analysis. Results: The impact of CSI and HRA scores on static and dynamic balance scores was unpredictable, ranging from a minimum of 10% to a maximum of 38.7%. Conclusion: There is a weak evidence to suggest that proprioception component could have contributed to the variance in static, dynamic balance and disability in patients with centrally sensitized CNP.

Introducing an Activity-Based Balance Index for Soccer Players: A Validity and Reliability Study

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of introducing a new activity-based balance index using a triaxial accelerometer during activity. Methods: Twenty seven soccer players (age: 14.5 ± 0.4 years old, body mass: 58.3 ± 9.3 kg, height: 172 ± 8 cm) who participated in the national premier league were recruited. The participants were tested for their balance, activity, and skill in four tests: (I) one leg stance; (II) dynamic Y balance; (III) running; and (IV) dribbling slalom. The acceleration of the body was recorded using an accelerometer during those tests. By processing acceleration data, a new activity-based balance index (ABI) was calculated based on the velocity, acceleration, and position index of soccer players. Using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC), reliability was calculated. Results: Reliability was high (ICC = 0.87 - 0.89; 95% CI = 0.77 - 0.93) in calculating ABI for the three activities performed in the tests. A significant positive correlation between ABI and both static and dynamic balance scores (r = 0.62, P = 0.002) was observed. Furthermore, negative correlation was found significantly between ABI and dribbling scores (r = -0.61, P = 0.026) and Y Balance test (r = 0.6, P = 0.002). Conclusions: In conclusion, the introduced ABI demonstrates great potential to determine balance and skill scores based on accelerometer-based measures.

The effects of the three-dimensional active trunk training exercise on trunk control ability, trunk muscle strength, and balance ability in sub-acute stroke patients: A randomized controlled pilot study.

Trunk control ability has been identified as an important early predictor of functional recovery after stroke. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of three-dimensional active trunk training exercise on trunk control ability, trunk muscle strength, and balance ability in sub-acute stroke patients. Twenty-four sub-acute stroke patients were randomly assigned to an experimental (n= 12) or control (n= 12) group. The experimental group (EG) performed three-dimensional active trunk training exercises using the Space Balance 3D system, while the control group (CG) performed only general trunk training exercises five times per week, for a total of three weeks. The Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), trunk muscle strength, balance ability using the Space Balance 3D system, and Brunel Balance Assessment (BBA) scores were assessed before and after the intervention. Pre-to-post intervention improvement was noted in all outcome measures for both groups (p< 0.05). Post intervention, the TIS, trunk muscle strength, static balance, and BBA scores were significantly higher in the EG than those in the CG (p< 0.05). Our study suggests that the three-dimensional active trunk training exercise may be more effective compared to the general trunk training exercise in improving trunk control ability, trunk muscle strength, and balance ability in sub-acute stroke patients.

A short-term yoga-based intervention improves balance control, body composition, and some aspects of mental health in the elderly men

Background: Body balance control represents a key function for the physical activities of elderly people aged sixty-five and over. Due to the biological and psychosocial changes in this age group, yoga-based intervention appears to be beneficial to maintaining their ability to balance along with related mental aspects of health. Objective: The aim of the presented study was to examine the effects of the 4-week yoga-based intervention on balance, body composition and the mental health aspects of elderly men. Methods: 67-80-year-old elderly men (N = 234, mean age 72.5 ± 7.7 years) were assessed with The Tinetti Balance Assessment Tool, bioimpedance body composition analyser InBody 230 and the Health Survey SF-36, applied for the pre- and post-testing. The experimental group (n = 122) underwent the 4-week intervention based on yoga exercises, while the control group (n = 112) had a usual daily program at their senior homes or centers. Results: The yoga intervention led to significant improvement of both the static balance and gait scores compared to the control group, with medium effect size, ηp2 = .070 and .080. The intervention also had an effect on the decrease of body fat percentage (by 1.7%) and an increase in muscle mass (by 1.3 kg), with a large effect size, ηp2 = .214 and .301. Results of the Health Survey showed that overall mental health did not change significantly although positive improvement in two items connected with emotional problems. Conclusions: A short-term yoga-based intervention may have a significant positive influence on physical abilities such as balance control and body composition rather than on mental health aspects in elderly men aged sixty-five and over.