Effects of Indoor Horseback Riding and Virtual Reality Exercises on the Dynamic Balance Ability of Normal Healthy Adults

[Purpose] The objective of this study was to determine the effect of indoor horseback riding and virtual reality exercises on the dynamic balance ability of normal adults. [Subjects] This study enrolled 24 normal adults and divided them into two groups: an indoor horseback riding exercise group (IHREG, n = 12) and a virtual reality exercise group (VREG, n = 12). [Methods] IHREG exercised on indoor horseback riding equipment and VREG exercised using the Nintendo Wii Fit three times a week for six weeks. The Biodex Balance System was used to analyze dynamic balance as measured by the overall stability index (OSI), anteroposterior stability index (APSI), and mediolateral stability index (MLSI). [Results] In the within-group comparison, IHREG and VERG both showed significant decreases in the dynamic balance indexes of OSI, APSI, and MLSI after the intervention, but no significant difference was found between the groups. [Conclusion] Both indoor horseback riding and virtual reality exercises were effective at improving the subjects’ dynamic balance ability as measured by OSI, APSI, and MLSI, and can be used as additional exercises for patients with conditions affecting postural control.     

Effects of an Exercise Program Using Aero-step Equipment on the Balance Ability of Normal Adults

[Purpose] This study was conducted to investigate the effects of an exercise program using aero-step exercise equipment on the balance ability of normal adults. [Subjects] Twenty-one normal adults were randomized into a flat floor exercise program group (FEG, n = 7), an aero-step exercise program group (AEG, n = 7), and a control group (CG, n = 7). [Methods] the FEG and AEG performed an exercise program four times a week for 2 weeks, but CG did not receive any treatment. The overall stability index (OSI), anterioposterior stability index (APSI), and mediolateral stability index (MLSI) were measured and compared using a Biodex balance system. [Results] The intragroup comparison revealed significant differences in OSI and APSI of AEG and in MLSI of FEG. [Conclusion] The exercise program using aero-step equipment seems to be effective at improving the balance abilities of OSI and APSI.Key words: Aero-step, Balance ability, Stability     

Postural stability in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

Purpose.?The aim of this study is to determine whether the postural changes in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) affected postural stability.

Method.?A total of 64 patients with a diagnosis of AS and 50 healthy volunteers were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to a tragus-to-wall distance?<15?cm (Group I, n?=?30) and?≥15?cm (Group II, n?=?34). The control group (Group III) consisted of 50 healthy volunteers. The postural stability was evaluated with the Biodex Stability System (BSS). The results of Antero-Posterior Stability Index (APSI), Medio-Lateral Stability Index (MLSI) and Overall Stability Index (OSI) were evaluated.

Results.?There were statistically significant differences between the three groups for OSI, APSI and MLSI. MLSI results were significantly different among patient groups. When Group II and the control group were compared, there were significant differences for OSI, APSI, and MLSI. Comparing Group I with the control group revealed a more significant difference for OSI, APSI, and MLSI.

Conclusions.?We have found that postural stability decreases in patients with AS in both the early and the late stages of the disease, but especially in the latter ones. This result may be thought to be related with increased kyphosis which is seen during the course of the disease.     

Effects of the Indoor Horseback Riding Exercise on Electromyographic Activity and Balance in One-leg Standing

[Purpose] This study investigated the influence of the indoor horseback riding exercise on the electromyographic activity of the lower extremity and balance during one-leg standing. [Subjects] Twenty normal adults were divided into an indoor horseback riding exercise group (IHREG, n=10), which performed the indoor horseback riding exercise using equipment 3 times a week for 3 weeks, and a control group (CG, n=10), which performed no exercise. [Methods] For comparitive analysis, an electromyographic test was performed to measure the electromyographic activities of the rectus femoris (RF), adductor longus (AL), and gluteus medius and the Biodex Balance System was used to measure the anteroposterior stability index (APSI), mediolateral stability index, and overall stability index (OSI). [Results] The electromyographic activities of RF and AL significantly increased and the balance abilities of APSI and OSI decreased significantly in the IHREG compared to the CG. [Conclusion] We consider indoor horseback riding exercise is an effective intervention for increasing electromyographic activities of the RF and AL, and the balance abilities of APSI and OSI of normal adults.     

The Effect of Ankle Taping and Balance Exercises on Postural Stability Indices in Healthy Women

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of ankle taping and balance exercises on postural stability indices in healthy women. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty healthy female students were randomly assigned into two equal groups: ankle taping and balance exercise. The balance exercise group performed balance exercises for 6 weeks, with 3 sessions per week and each session lasting 40 minutes. Ankle joint taping was performed for 6 weeks and was renewed three times a week. Before and after the interventions, overall, anteroposterior, and mediolateral stability indices were measured with a Biodex Balance System in bilateral and unilateral stance positions with the eyes open and closed. [Results] In the taping group during bilateral standing with the eyes closed, the overall stability index changed from 6±1.4 to 4.8±1.3, anteroposterior stability index changed from 4.2±1.27 to 3.4±0.97, and mediolateral stability index changed from 3.2±0.75 to 2.7± 0.7. In the balance exercise group during bilateral standing with the eyes closed, the overall stability index changed from 5.7±1.69 to 4.5±1.94, anteroposterior stability index changed from 4.1±1.61 to 3±1.21, and mediolateral stability index changed from 3.5±1.4 to 2.2± 1.3. No significant difference was seen between the two groups regarding any study variables. [Conclusion] The results showed that compared with the taping technique, balance training increases postural stability in the majority of the studied balance situations.Key words: Balance exercise, Taping, Biodex     

Determination of Biodex Balance System Cutoff Scores in Older People With Nonspecific Back Pain: A Cross-sectional Study

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine cutoff scores for the Biodex Balance System (BBS) and verify if they could be used to discriminate older people with nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) with poor postural performance from those with good postural performance.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 52 participants with NSLBP older than 65 years. One level of stability (level 5; intraclass correlation ≥0.70) and 2 conditions (eyes open and eyes closed) were selected for the testing procedure. Anterior-posterior stability index (APSI), medial-lateral stability index (MLSI), and overall stability index (OSI) scores were calculated. The participants were classified into 2 groups: high risk of falling and low risk of falling. Both the receiver operating characteristic and the area under the curve were used to determine the best BBS cutoff values. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the ability of BBS scores to predict risk of falling.ResultsBBS cutoff scores in the eyes-open condition (APSI = 2.60, MLSI = 1.95, OSI = 2.95) and eyes-closed condition (APSI = 3.05, MLSI = 2.17, OSI = 3.25) were found to be sensitive and specific in determining postural performance. Participants with index values lower than the cutoff scores had, respectively, 6.42, 4.20, and 3.72 times lower risk of falling in the eyes-open condition and 3.33, 5.50, and 3.00 times lower risk of falling in the eyes-closed condition. The predictive characteristics of the models for risk analysis were excellent and good to excellent.ConclusionOur study shows that BBS cutoff scores are sensitive and specific in distinguishing between poor and good postural performance in older people with NSLBP.     

The effects of balance training and ankle training on the gait of elderly people who have fallen

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to examine the effects of balance training and muscle training around the ankle joints on the gait of elderly people who have experienced a fall. [Subjects] Twenty-six elderly people with a risk of falling and a Berg Balance Scale score of 37 to 50 points who had experienced a fall in the last year were randomly and equally assigned to either a balance training group or an ankle training group. The balance training group received training on a hard floor, training while maintaining balance on a cushion ball in a standing position, and training while maintaining balance on an unstable platform in a standing position; the ankle training group received training to strengthen the muscles around the ankle joints and conducted stretch exercise for the muscles around the ankle joints. [Results] There were significant changes in gait velocity, step length, and stride length in the balance training group after the intervention; there were significant changes in gait velocity, cadence, step time, cycle time, step length, and stride length in the ankle training group after the intervention. In a between-group comparison, the gait velocity of the balance training group showed a significant improvement compared with the ankle training group. [Conclusion] Both balance training and ankle joint training are effective in enhancing the gait ability of elderly people with a risk of falling; in particular, balance training is effective in improving the gait velocity of elderly people who have experienced a fall compared with ankle joint training.Key words: Elderly people, Balance training, Ankle training     

The effect of modified bridge exercise on balance ability of stroke patients

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to verify the effects of a modified bridging exercise on stroke patients with improvement in weight bearing on the affected side in standing and static balancing ability. [Subjects] Thirty patients who had a stroke were randomly allocated into a supine bridge exercise group (SBG, n=10), a supine bridge exercise on a TOGU balance pad group (SBTG, n=10), and a unilateral bridge exercise group (UBG, n=10). [Methods] The SBG patients underwent supine bridge exercise, the SBTG patients underwent supine bridge exercise with a TOGU balance pad, and the UBG patients underwent unilateral bridge exercise. All groups received 20 minutes of training per day, five times per week, for four weeks. [Results] All groups showed significant changes in weight bearing in a standing position after the intervention. The SBTG and UBG groups showed significant changes in balance ability. [Conclusion] According to the results of this study, bridge exercise was effective in improving weight bearing in a standing position and improving balance on stroke patients. The bridge exercise with a TOGU balance pad and the unilateral bridge exercise were especially more effective in anterior, posterior length in limit of stability following on standing.Key words: Bridge exercise, Stroke, Balance     

INTRA AND INTERSESSION RELIABILITY OF A POSTURAL CONTROL PROTOCOL IN ATHLETES WITH AND WITHOUT ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION: A DUAL‐TASK PARADIGM

Background:

Quantification of dynamic balance is essential to assess a patient''s level of injury or ability to function so that a proper plan of care may commence. In spite of comprehensive utilization of dual‐tasking in balance assessment protocols, a lack of sufficient reliability data is apparent.

Purpose:

The purpose of the present study was to determine the intra‐ and inter‐session reliability of dynamic balance measures obtained using the Biodex Balance System® (BBS) for a group of athletes who had undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and a matched control group without ACLR, while using a dual‐task paradigm.

Methods:

Single‐limb postural stability was assessed in 15 athletes who had undergone ACLR and 15 healthy matched controls. The outcome variables included measures of both postural and cognitive performance. For measuring postural performance, the overall stability index (OSI), anterior‐posterior stability index (APSI), and medial‐lateral stability index (MLSI), were recorded. Cognitive performance was evaluated by measuring error ratio and average reaction time. Subjects faced 4 postural task difficulty levels (platform stabilities of 8 and 6 with eyes open and closed), and 2 cognitive task difficulty levels (with or without auditory Stroop task). During dual task conditions (conditions with Stroop task), error ratio and average reaction time were calculated.

Results:

Regarding intrasession reliability, ICC values of test session were higher for MLSI [ACL‐R group (0.83‐0.95), control group (0.71‐0.95)] compared to OSI [ACL‐R group (0.80‐0.92), control group (0.67‐0.95)] and APSI [ACL‐R group (0.73‐0.90), control group (0.62‐0.90)]. Furthermore, ICC values of first test session were higher in reaction time [ACL‐R group (0.92‐0.95), control group (0.80‐0.92)] than error ratio [ACL‐R group (0.72‐0.88), control group (0.61‐0.83)]. ICC values of retest session were higher for MLSI [ACL‐R group (0.83‐0.94), control group (0.87‐0.93)] than OSI [ACL‐R group (0.81‐0.91), control group (0.83‐0.93)] and APSI [ACL‐R group (0.73‐0.90), control group (0.53‐0.90)]. Moreover, ICC values of retest session were higher in reaction time [ACL‐R group (0.89‐0.98), control group (0.80‐0.92)] equated with error ratio [ACL‐R group (0.73‐0.87), control group (0.57‐0.79)].With respect to intersession reliability, ICC values were higher for MLSI [ACL‐R group (0.72‐0.96), control group (0.75‐0.92)] than OSI [ACL‐R group (0.55‐0.91), control group (0.64‐0.87)] and APSI [ACL‐R group (0.55‐0.79), control group (0.46‐0.89)]. Additionally, ICC values were higher in reaction time [ACL‐R group (0.87‐0.95), control group (0.68‐0.81)] in contrast to error ratio [ACL‐R group (0.42‐0.64), control group (0.54‐0.74)].

Conclusion:

Biodex Balance System® measures of postural stability demonstrated moderate to high reliability in athletes with and without ACLR during dual‐tasking. Results of the current study indicated that assessment of postural and cognitive performance in athletes with ACLR may be reliably incorporated into the evaluation of functional activity.

Level of Evidence:

2b     

Kinesthetic awareness in subjects with multiple ankle sprains

The purposes of this study were 1) to determine whether decreased kinesthetic awareness occurs in individuals with recurrent ankle sprains and 2) to determine whether the one-legged standing balance test can be used to differentiate between ankle instability in injured and uninjured ankles. Thirty athletes between 18 and 24 years of age with multiple sprains of one ankle and no reported sprains of the other ankle were tested to compare their ability to detect passive plantar flexion and standing balance in each ankle. Luce's choice theory was used to analyze subjects' responses. Subjects had significantly greater difficulty detecting passive motion in the ankle with sprains as compared with the uninjured ankle. Subjects also performed a one-legged standing balance test on both the injured and uninjured legs. In 20 subjects, either the subject or observer reported balance deficits on the injured side as compared with the uninjured side. The results of this study demonstrate the need for clinicians to evaluate kinesthetic deficits and to design exercise programs to improve kinesthetic awareness and decrease ankle instability in individuals with multiple ankle sprains.     

正常年轻人自动态平衡能力的测量及其影响因素

目的探索Biodex Balance System(BBS)测试的程序和敏感性,分析个体因素对测试结果的影响,确定参数的预测值. 方法应用BBS对13名正常年轻人(18～35岁)进行不同系统设置条件下的动态姿势图测量和稳定性测试,将测量结果与个体因素进行比较分析. 结果 8级闭眼时及稳定性测试的完成时间(LOST)有较好的重测信度(r=0.87～0.94, P<0.01).稳定指数(SI, APSI, MLSI)及采样标准差(SD, APSD, MLSD)闭眼时高于视觉反馈时(P<0.01),并在平台稳定性减少到4级时明显增大(P<0.01).APSI大于 MLSI(t=15.838, P=0.000),APSD大于MLSD(t=12.672,P=0.000).对姿势控制的贡献率视觉为21.7%,本体感觉为25.3%,前庭感觉最大可达41.7%.LOST随平台稳定性减少而增加,各级别间的差异有非常显著性意义(P<0.01);方向控制能力(DC)在平台稳定性减少到4级时明显减少(P<0.05).年龄和体重与大部分参数有相关性(|r|=0.18～0.50, P=0.045～0.000),与SI、MLSI无相关性;体重指数与LOST高度正相关(r=0.83, P=0.000), 与平均DC中度负相关(r=-0.58,P=0.000),身高与LOST中度负相关 (r=-0.41, P=0.001).男性8级视觉反馈SI(1.520±0.222)与标准化正常值无差异(Z=1.200,P=0.230),女性(1.275±0.191)小于标准化正常值(t=3.927,P=0.006);SI、APSI、MLSI和LOST存在性别差异(F= 6.567～27.813, P=0.012～ 0.000),DC无性别差异. 结论视觉信息和/或本体感觉信息输入的减少会导致躯体摆幅增加和重心控制能力下降,BBS能敏感地反映出这种变化趋势,可用于平衡功能的定量评定.     

Effect of isotonic and isokinetic exercise on muscle activity and balance of the ankle joint

[Purpose] This study was performed to examine how the balance of lower limbs and the muscle activities of the tibialis anterior (TA), the medial gastrocnemius (GCM), and the peroneus longus (PL) are influenced by isotonic and isokinetic exercise of the ankle joint. [Subjects] The subjects of this study were healthy adults (n=20), and they were divided into two groups (isotonic=10, isokinetic=10). [Methods] Isotonic group performed 3 sets of 10 contractions at 50% of MVIC and Isokinetic group performed 3 sets of 60°/sec. Muscle activity was measured by EMG and balance was measured by one-leg standing test. [Results] For muscle activity, a main effect of group was found in the non-dominant TA, and the dominant TA, GCM and PL. For balance, a main effect of time was found in both groups for the sway area measured support was provided by the non-dominant side. [Conclusion] In terms of muscle activity, the two groups showed a significant difference, and the isokinetic group showed higher muscle activities. In terms of balance, there was a significant difference between the pre-test and the post-test. The results of this study may help in the selection of exercises for physical therapy, because they show that muscle activity and balance vary according to the type of exercise.Key words: Isotonic, Isokinetic, Balance     

The effects of a strategic strength resistance exercise program on the isokinetic muscular function of the ankle

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a strategic strength resistance exercise program on the isokinetic muscular function of the ankle joint. [Subjects] This study included 22 males in their twenties who were diagnosed with functional injury of the ankle joint. [Methods] To strengthen plantar flexion and dorsiflexion of the ankle joint, 8 weeks of weight, resistance band, and plyometric training, and training using props were performed. [Results] A medical examination by interview indicated that pain, swelling, instability, running, and support capacity of the ankle joint significantly improved with the strategic strength resistance exercise program. For the isokinetic peak torque of the ankles, significant differences were observed in right plantar flexion and bilateral dorsiflexion. [Conclusion] The strategic strength resistance exercise program is highly recommended for the functional stability of the ankle joint. Efficient exercise therapy is useful for muscle damage prevention, muscle strengthening, and functional interventions.Key words: Ankle joint, Isokinetic, Muscular function     

踝关节平衡装置训练对功能性踝关节不稳患者踝关节功能及姿势控制能力的影响

目的:拟探究新型踝关节平衡装置训练对功能性踝关节不稳(FAI)患者踝关节功能及姿势控制能力的影响。方法:将符合纳入条件的FAI患者45名随机分为常规组(n=21)和平衡组(n=24),2组患者分别接受常规功能训练和新型踝关节平衡训练装置训练,8周干预前后,使用Noraxon表面肌电测试系统和Trap-door踝关节内翻诱发装置进行踝周肌肉潜伏期的测试,使用Biodex Systems IV型等速肌力测试系统进行踝关节位置觉和踝内外翻等速肌力的测试,使用Y型平衡测试(YBT)系统进行姿势控制能力的测试,使用坎伯兰踝关节不稳定工具(CAIT)对FAI患者进行评分。结果:干预8周后,平衡组FAI患者的CAIT评分、踝周肌肉潜伏期(腓肠肌内侧头、腓肠肌外侧头、腓骨长肌、胫骨前肌)、峰值踝外翻力矩和姿势控制能力(内收、外展的最大距离)相比于干预前显著改善(P<0.05),且明显优于对照组(P<0.05)。结论:相比于常规功能训练,踝关节平衡装置训练可以更显著地提高FAI患者的姿势控制能力和踝关节的功能。     

Repetitive sit-to-stand training with the step-foot position on the non-paretic side,and its effects on the balance and foot pressure of chronic stroke subjects

[Purpose] This study aimed to improve the asymmetrical weight-bearing ratio by applying repetitive sit-to-stand training methods that feature a step-foot position to the paretic-side foot of hemiplegic patients; it sought also to provide the information needed to apply weight-bearing and balance training to hemiplegic patients. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were divided into two groups: a spontaneous group and a step group. They all performed repetitive sit-to-stand training five times per week for a total of six weeks. The Biodex Balance System, TUG, and 5XSST were used to measure the static and dynamic standing balance of each patient. A foot mat system was used to measure foot pressure. [Results] In the balance measurements, differences in the Overall index, Ant-post index, Med-lat index, Fall risk index, TUG, and 5XSST after training was significantly different between the two study groups. In evaluating foot pressure measurements, we found that the COP (Ant-post), Peak pressure: hind foot, and Contact area: hind foot measurements significantly differed between the groups after the training. [Conclusion] Repetitive sit-to-stand training that involves positioning the non-paretic leg upward can be considered a significant form of training that improves the symmetric posture adjustment and balance of hemiplegic patients following a stroke.Key words: Step-foot position, Balance, Foot pressure     

The effect of knee joint Mulligan taping on balance and gait in subacute stroke patients

[Purpose] This study aimed to determine the effects of Mulligan taping on balance and gait in subacute stroke patients. [Subjects] Thirty patients with subacute stroke were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (n = 15) and the control group (n = 15). Mulligan taping was applied to the knee joints of participants in the experimental group while placebo taping was applied to knee joints of subjects in the control group. Biodex was used to assess their balance ability and the GAITRite System was used to test gait. All measurements were performed before and after the intervention. [Results] Dynamic standing balance of the experimental group significantly improved after taping. Gait, gait cadence, velocity, step length, and stride length also improved significantly. However, no significant differences in standing balance or gait were observed for the control group. Furthermore, significant differences in dynamic standing balance, cadence, and velocity were found between the two groups after the intervention. [Conclusion] Our results demonstrate that Mulligan taping is effective for improving balance and gait in subacute stroke patients. Thus, this technique is a potential method for actively facilitating rehabilitation programs for hemiplegia patients.Key words: Stroke, Mulligan taping, Balance     

Effects of treadmill training with the eyes closed on gait and balance ability of chronic stroke patients

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of treadmill walking with the eyes closed and open on the gait and balance abilities of chronic stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty patients with chronic stroke participated in this study. The treadmill gait training for each group lasted 40 minutes, and sessions were held 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Gait ability was measured using a Biodex Gait Trainer Treadmill System. Balance ability was measured using a Biodex Balance System. [Results] After the treadmill training‚ the treadmill training with eyes closed (TEC) group showed significant improvements in walking distance‚ step length‚ coefficient of variation‚ and limit of stability (overall‚ lateral affected‚ forward lateral unaffected) compared to the treadmill training with eyes open (TEO) group. [Conclusion] The walking and balance abilities of the TEC participants showed more improvement after the treadmill walking sessions than those of the TEO participants. Therefore‚ treadmill walking with visual deprivation may be useful for the rehabilitation of patients with chronic stroke.Key words: Stroke, Treadmill training, Visual blocking     

Predictors of chronic ankle instability: Analysis of peroneal reaction time,dynamic balance and isokinetic strength

BackgroundPrevious studies have reported the factors contributing to chronic ankle instability, which could lead to more effective treatments. However, factors such as the reflex response and ankle muscle strength have not been taken into account in previous investigations.MethodsFifty recreational athletes with chronic ankle instability and 55 healthy controls were recruited. Peroneal reaction time in response to sudden inversion, isokinetic evertor muscle strength and dynamic balance with the Star Excursion Balance Test and the Biodex Stability System were measured. The relationship between the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool score and performance on each test was assessed and a backward multiple linear regression analysis was conducted.FindingsParticipants with chronic ankle instability showed prolonged peroneal reaction time, poor performance in the Biodex Stability System and decreased reach distance in the Star Excursion Balance Test. No significant differences were found in eversion and inversion peak torque. Moderate correlations were found between the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool score and the peroneal reaction time and performance on the Star Excursion Balance Test. Peroneus brevis reaction time and the posteromedial and lateral directions of the Star Excursion Balance Test accounted for 36% of the variance in the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool.InterpretationDynamic balance deficits and delayed peroneal reaction time are present in participants with chronic ankle instability. Peroneus brevis reaction time and the posteromedial and lateral directions of the Star Excursion Balance Test were the main contributing factors to the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool score. No clear strength impairments were reported in unstable ankles.     

Effects of Nintendo Wii Fit Plus training on ankle strength with functional ankle instability

[Purpose] The objective of this study was to examine the effects of a training program using the Nintendo Wii Fit Plus on the ankle muscle strengths of subjects with functional ankle instability. [Subjects and Methods] This study was conducted using subjects in their 20s who had functional ankle instability. They were randomized to a strengthening training group and a balance training group with 10 subjects in each, and they performed an exercise using Nintendo Wii Fit Plus for 20 minutes. In addition, every participant completed preparation and finishing exercises for 5 minutes, respectively. [Results] The muscle strengths after conducting plantar flexion and dorsiflexion significantly increased at the angular velocities of 60° and 120° in the strengthening training group. Furthermore, the muscle strengths after conducting plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, eversion, and inversion significantly increased at the angular velocities of 60° and 120° in the balance training group. [Conclusion] The balance training group using Nintendo Wii Fit Plus showed better results than the strengthening training group. Consequently, it is recommended to add the balance training program of the Nintendo Wii Fit Plus to conventional exercise programs to improve ankle muscle strength in functional ankle instability at a low cost.Key words: Nintendo Wii Fit Plus, Functional ankle instability, Strength     

Effects of different types of exercise on muscle activity and balance control

[Purpose] This study analyzed the effects of isotonic, isokinetic, and isometric exercises of ankle joint muscles on lower extremity muscle activity and balance control. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 30 healthy adults (15 males) in their 20s who were randomly assigned to three different exercise method groups of 10 people each. The isokinetic exercise group performed three sets at an angular velocity of 60°/sec, including a single rest period after every set of 10 repetitions. The isometric exercise group performed three sets consisting of three 15 repetitions of a 15-second exercise followed by a 5-second rest. [Results] Multivariate analysis of variance revealed that depending on the exercise method, the non-dominant tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius muscle, and peroneus longus showed significant differences in muscle activity for weight-bearing non-dominant sides; when the dominant side was weight-bearing, the dominant gastrocnemius and peroneus longus showed significant differences in muscle activity; and the non-dominant and dominant sides showed significant differences in balance control depending on the duration of support in the area. [Conclusion] Muscle fatigue from the three exercise methods produced a decline in muscle activity and balance control; due to the fatigue before exercise, the side that did not perform the exercises was affected.Key words: Isotonic, Isokinetic, Isometric