Tag: balance

Does three sessions of 12-week plyometric training per week improve physical fitness parameters in professional male soccer players? A randomized controlled trial

Deepak Siby, Navaraj Chelliah Jesus Rajkumar, Nirmal Michael Salvi, Debajit Karmakar, Ibnu Noufal Kambitta Valappil, Bekir Erhan Orhan, Farjana Akter Boby, Yuni Astuti

Deepak Siby et al. – Does three sessions of 12-week plyometric training per week improve physical fitness parameters in professional male soccer players? A randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 84-93

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DDZ6Q

Abstract
Background. Plyometric training is recognized for enhancing various physical fitness parameters critical to athletic performance, particularly in soccer players.
Purpose. This study aimed to assess the effects of a 12-week plyometric training program, conducted three times per week, on key fitness parameters in professional male soccer players.
Methods. A total of 40 professional male soccer players were randomly assigned to a control group (CG, n=20) and a plyometric training group (PTG, n=20). Participants (mean height = 176.14±3.28 cm, weight = 68.24±2.17 kg, and age = 20.31±2.30 years) underwent a 12-week plyometric training intervention. Fitness assessments were conducted before and after the intervention, measuring agility (t-test), balance (stork stand test), speed (50 m dash), power (medicine ball throw test), explosive power (vertical jump), leg strength (standing broad jump), and core strength (sit-up test).
Results. Significant improvements (p < 0.001) were observed in the PTG across all fitness parameters compared to the control group, indicating the effectiveness of plyometric training in enhancing physical fitness in soccer players.
Conclusion. The 12-week plyometric training program positively impacted agility, balance, speed, power, explosive power, leg strength, and core strength in professional male soccer players, suggesting it as a valuable regimen for improving overall physical performance.
Key words
plyometric training, physical fitness, agility, balance, speed, power, soccer, strength
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Effectiveness of game-based activity on postural sway and balance among elderly population

Vignesh V, Rajeswari Muthusamy, Sivakumar Ramachandran

Vignesh V, Rajeswari Muthusamy, Sivakumar Ramachandran – Effectiveness of game-based activity on postural sway and balance among elderly population –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 40-47

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DO16E

Abstract
Introduction. Balance decreases with age, and factors influencing balance can increase postural sway and displace the center of pressure. Reduced physical activity is a significant problem that contributes to impaired balance and an increased risk of falling in the elderly population. Routine exercise programs are often challenging in improving balance, whereas game-based activity can be more engaging and motivating for older adults. Game-based training using the Balance Postural Sway System (BPSS) was applied in this study to reduce postural sway and therapeutically improve balance.
Methods. This interventional study was conducted on 51 elderly adults who met the inclusion criteria. The intervention group (n = 26) underwent game-based activity with BPSS, while the control group (n = 25) received conventional balance training. The BPSS parameters used included the center of foot pressure X index (COFPXI) and Y index (COFPYI), which indicate the center of foot pressure with lateral sway and anterior-posterior sway, respectively. The left and right toe-heel values denote weight distribution between the toe and heel. The outcome measures used were the Fall Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS).
Results. The paired t-test showed a significant difference in all BPSS parameters—COFPXI, COFPYI, right toe, BBS, and FES-I—except for the left toe-heel in the intervention group. In contrast, the conventional group showed a significant difference only in BPSS COFPYI, FES-I, and BBS (p < 0.05). The unpaired t-test demonstrated that the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in all balance parameters of BPSS and FES-I (p < 0.05) than the conventional group, except for BBS.
Conclusion. Game-based activity with BPSS has been shown to reduce postural sway, improve pressure distribution on the foot, enhance balance, and decrease the risk of falls in the elderly population. The results suggest that incorporating such game-based activities into routine exercise programs for older adults can effectively improve balance and reduce fall risk.
Key words
balance, Balance Postural Sway System, elderly, fall risk, postural sway
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Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on balance and risk of fall in patients with strokeEffect of transcranial direct current stimulation on balance and risk of fall in patients with stroke

Mohamed N. El Bahrawy, Rewida M. El Janaini, Ashraf A. Darwesh, Heba A. Draz, Zeinab M. Abdelrehim, Noura A. Elkafrawy

 

Mohamed N. El Bahrawy et al – Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on balance and risk of fall in patients with stroke –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(1); 27-33

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG007DE38H

Abstract
Background. Balance refers to the ability to achieve and maintain a state of equilibrium where all acting forces neutralize one another and equal zero. It plays a crucial role in community ambulation and gait performance after a stroke. Post-stroke balance impairment predisposes individuals to falls, leading to negative consequences such as fall-induced injuries (including fractures), an increased fear of falling, depression, social isolation, and even death.
Purpose. To investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on balance and risk of falls in stroke patients.
Subjects & Methods: Thirty chronic stroke patients, both male and female, aged 45–60 years, participated in this study. Participants were randomly allocated into two equal groups: the study group and the control group. The study group (GI) received active tDCS in combination with selected physical therapy exercises, while the control group (GII) received sham tDCS and the same physical therapy exercises. Balance was assessed using the Biodex Balance System (Biodex-BS) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), while the risk of falls was assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and the Fall Efficacy Scale (FES). All outcome measures were evaluated for each patient before and after a four-week program, consisting of three sessions per week.
Results. There was a significant improvement in all measured variables (overall stability index, overall dynamic limit of stability, BBS, TUG, and FES) in the study group compared to the control group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion. tDCS effectively enhances balance and reduces the risk of falls in individuals post-stroke.
Key words
balance, risk of falls, tDCS, stroke
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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function on selected postural variables with analysis of changes in equivalent reactions

Zuzanna Broczkowska, Arkadiusz Żurawski, Zbigniew Śliwiński

Zuzanna Broczkowska, Arkadiusz Żurawski, Zbigniew Śliwiński – Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function on selected postural variables with analysis of changes in equivalent reactions –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(5); 267-278

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020CBV25

Abstract Introduction. The position and tensions in the temporomandibular joint directly affect the cervical spine by changing the position of the cervical lordosis through a direct connection between the TMJ joint and the C0-C1 segment. According to the theory of tensegrity occurring in the human body, a change in the position in one segment can affect the other areas of the body. Changes in the tension of the structures in the joint can therefore affect the parameters of the equilibrium reactions. In the current literature review, there is little research on the relationship between the temporomandibular joint and balance. Study aim. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of the temporomandibular joint position on the parameters of cervical spine lordosis depth, body posture and balance reactions in a group of young adults. Methods and materials. A total of 43 people aged 18-26 were examined. The tests were conducted in a static form using the DIERS posture lab system in three settings: TMJ joint in a neutral position, TMJ with maximum jaw tension and opening in maximum possibilities. People with orthodontic appliances and people whose jaw opening range was limited (less than the width of their four fingers) were excluded from the study. Parameters used for analysis: Depth of cervical lordosis [mm], Amount of head protraction [mm], Trunk inclination, Depth and angle of lumbar lordosis, Pelvic inclination, pelvic rotation, and variables defining parameters of equivalent reactions and variables defining parameters of equivalent reactions: Left foot load [%], Right foot load [%], Forefoot load [%], Heel load [%], Maximum left foot pressure [N], Maximum right foot pressure [N], Left foot contact area [cm2], Right foot contact area [cm²], Lateral movement COP (max) [mm], Total lateral movement COP [mm], Total front/back movement COP [mm], COP area. Statistica program was used for statistical analysis. Tests for normality distribution (Shapiro-Wilk), Chi-square test were performed, and correlations were examined with Spearman’s test. Results. Studies conducted on a group of young adults may suggest the influence of the temporomandibular joint position on changes in equivalent changes. The results of descriptive statistics show significant changes in the average results, including around foot load or COP surface. The highest average results were observed in the case of opening the TMJ joint, where deviations in the area of equivalent reaction changes showed the highest average results. The results of both descriptive statistics and correlations did not show significant differences between the joint position and trunk variables. The differences between the was minimal. Conclusions. Changes in the position and tension of the temporomandibular joint affect the position of the cervical spine and balance parameters. For the position with open TMJ positioning, there is a correlation with the variables of the contact area of the right and left foot with the ground. There are no changes in body posture. It cannot be stated that the position of the temporomandibular joint significantly affects the variables of body posture.
Key words temporomandibular joint, spine, balance, DIERS
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The effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) therapy on balance and mobility in elderly patients: a randomized controlled trial

Madhanraj Sekar, Prathap Suganthirababu, Shenbaga Sundaram Subramanian, Surya Vishnuram, Vinodhkumar Ramalingam, Anitha Arul, Andrew Anbarason

Madhanraj Sekar et al. – The effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) therapy on balance and mobility in elderly patients: a randomized controlled trial –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(5); 191-194

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020C8UWP

Abstract Introduction. Balance impairments and mobility limitations are prevalent challenges among elderly individuals, often contributing to an increased risk of falls and a diminished quality of life. Traditional physiotherapy interventions have effectively addressed these issues, but novel approaches, such as virtual reality (VR) therapy, have emerged as potential enhancements to rehabilitation protocols. Through its immersive environments, VR therapy may engage and challenge patients, potentially leading to improved outcomes. Objective. To investigate whether VR therapy enhances balance and mobility outcomes in elderly patients compared with a traditional physiotherapy protocol. Methods. Sixty elderly individuals, aged 65 and above, referred for outpatient physiotherapy due to balance and mobility issues, were recruited for this randomized controlled trial (RCT) with two parallel arms. They were randomly allocated to the intervention group, treated with VR therapy sessions, while the control group received traditional physiotherapy sessions focused on balance exercises and mobility. The treatment duration was twice a week for over 8 weeks. Baseline assessments were conducted before the intervention, and follow-up assessments were performed immediately after the 8-week intervention period. Outcome Measures. Primary Outcome: Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) as the primary outcome, while mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and quality of life was evaluated using the EQ-5D Questionnaire as the secondary outcome. Results. The VR therapy group demonstrated a more significant improvement in balance (BBS score increase of 12.4 points) than the control group (BBS score increase of 7.6 points). Regarding mobility, the VR group reduced TUG time by 3.8 seconds, compared to 2.8 seconds in the control group, indicating faster completion times and improved functional mobility. The VR group reported a more significant increase in quality of life (0.17 EQ-5D improvement) compared to the control group (0.12 improvement), suggesting that immersive therapy positively impacted overall well-being. Conclusion. It was anticipated that the VR therapy group would demonstrate more significant improvements in balance, mobility, and quality of life than those in the traditional physiotherapy group.
Key words augmented learning, virtual reality, software technology, balance, risk of fall
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Effect of core stability exercises on symmetrical weight bearing in chronic stroke patients

Mohamed Nabil El-Bahrawy, Mohamed Arafa Abdelhalem, Heba A. Deraz, Mohammed Elsayed, Hossam Mohammed Alsaid

 

Mohamed Nabil El-Bahrawy, Mohamed Arafa Abdelhalem, Heba A. Deraz, Mohammed Elsayed, Hossam Mohammed Alsaid – Effect of core stability exercises on symmetrical weight bearing in chronic stroke patients –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 356-362

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020AW59

Abstract:
Background. Stroke is the most common clinical manifestation of diseases which occur motor, sensory, perceptual, or cognitive deficiency and have serious impact on independence, functioning and quality of life of the stroke survivors.
Objective. To investigate the effect of core stability exercise on symmetrical weight bearing in chronic stroke patients.
Methods. This study involved the recruitment of forty chronic stroke patients, comprising individuals of both genders aged between 50 and 65 years. Data regarding demographics were meticulously collected, and the diagnosis was confirmed by a neurologist. The chosen patients were split into a pair of equal groups at random, the control group (B) and the study group (A). The subjects were assessed by weight scale by standing on one weight scale with both legs to measure the accurate body weight of the patient then put one leg on each weight scale to capture the weight of the affected and non-affected legs. Prior to treatment, the Berg Balance scale was used to evaluate each patient. Further measurements were conducted following the course of treatment. The treatment was done for six weeks, day after day. The study group (A) received core stability exercises and selected program for physical therapy (gentle strengthening exercises for upper limb & lower limb muscles, mobilization for scapula & pelvis, stretching exercises, range of motion exercises and balance exercises). The control group (B) received only the same selected physical therapy program.
Results. The comparison among pre-treatment as well as post-treatment within group A revealed a substantial difference for the affected weight limb and non-affected weight limb, respectively, (P = 0.0001* and 0.0001*), and group B showed a significant difference for the affected weight limb and non-affected weight limb, respectively, (P = 0.0001* and 0.0001*). Results from comparing the two groups post treatment revealed no substantial differences (P = 0.622 and 0.183) for the affected weight limb and non-affected weight limb, respectively.
Conclusion. Core stability exercises significantly affected symmetrical weight bearing in chronic stroke patients. However, there was no substantial difference among the study group (core stability exercises) and the control group (selected physiotherapy exercises) on symmetrical weight bearing among chronic stroke patients.

Keywords:
core stability exercises, symmetrical weight bearing, balance, chronic stroke

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Effect of water-based exercise with or without external buoyancy devices in influencing balance improvement in stroke: scoping review

Ribka Theresia, Farid Rahman

 

Ribka Theresia, Farid Rahman – Effect of water-based exercise with or without external buoyancy devices in influencing balance improvement in stroke: scoping review –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 350-355

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020A6ZN

Abstract:
Background. Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability that can result in spasticity, gait disturbances, and balance disorders. Land-based rehabilitation methods have been explored, and concerns about joint and muscle stress have led researchers to investigate alternative approaches, including water-based exercise.
Aim. To summarize the available data related to the clinical picture of whether there is a difference in the effect of water-based exercises with or without external buoyancy devices in influencing balance improvement in stroke.
Material and methods. The method used in this study is Scoping Review, which aims to find answers to questions from researchers related to the literature on the research topic. The collected articles will be synthesized using the TIDIER checklist, and articles will be searched through various databases.
Results. After conducting the article selection process, 20 suitable articles were found. The details of articles related to population, interventions, and outcome measures are listed.
Conclusion. Water-based exercises are efficient for stroke patients. These exercise methods showed effectiveness in improving balance in stroke patients. Many practical water-based exercise methods must be analyzed, especially for stroke patients, in future research.

Keywords:
water-based exercise, stroke, balance, fall risk

 

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Analysis of lumbar lordosis on selected balance parameters in men

Zuzanna Broczkowska, Arkadiusz Żurawski, Kamil Markowski, Zbigniew Śliwiński

 

Zuzanna Broczkowska, Arkadiusz Żurawski, Kamil Markowski, Zbigniew Śliwiński– Analysis of lumbar lordosis on selected balance parameters in men –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2024; 24(3); 158-167

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG020AB2L

Abstract:
Introduction. Scientific research indicates the impact of increased lumbar lordosis on selected parameters of static foot load and changes in balance reactions in different age groups. According to the authors, pelvic displacement towards nutation directly influences the increase in lumbar lordosis, thereby affecting the previously mentioned parameters.
Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze selected balance parameters in a group of men based on the relationship with their lumbar lordosis depth.
Materials and Methods. The study was conducted from January to October 2023 at the Collegium Medicum of the Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce. The study group consisted of students from the Collegium Medicum, aged 18‑26 years. A total of 81 men were examined. The study was carried out in a static form using the Diers Posture Lab system. The parameters included in the statistical analysis were: “Lordosis angle,” “Pelvic inclination,” “Lateral movement (max.) CoP,” “Total lateral movement CoP,” “COP area,” “Total front/back movement CoP.” The analysis also considered Harzmann parameters: “Lateral deviation VP‑DM (rms),” “Surface rotation (rms),” “Pelvic obliquity,” “Pelvic twist,” “Torso deviation from vertical VP‑DM,” as well as parameters determining foot load: “Rear force distribution [%],” “Front force distribution [%],” “Left side force distribution [%],” “Right side force distribution [%],” “Maximum left side pressure [N],” “Maximum right side pressure [N],” “Left foot contact area [cm2],” “Right foot contact area [cm2]” in a group of young adults (students of medical and health sciences). Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica Stat Soft 21. Normality tests (Shapiro‑Wilk) and correlation tests using Spearman’s test were conducted.
Results. No statistically significant correlation was found between the lordosis angle and balance reactions, as well as pelvic inclination in the group of young adult men.
Conclusions. Increased lumbar lordosis in young adult men does not directly affect the examined parameters of balance reactions.

Keywords:
lumbar lordosis, balance, pelvis

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The effect of the circuit bodyweight training method on increasing muscle strength, muscle endurance, and balance of wrestling athlete

Farid Imam Nurhadi, Wawan Sundawan Suherman, Yudik Prasetyo, Ahmad Nasrulloh, Rina Yuniana, Muhamad Ichsan Sabillah


Farid Imam Nurhadi, Wawan Sundawan Suherman, Yudik Prasetyo, Ahmad Nasrulloh, Rina Yuniana, Muhamad Ichsan Sabillah – The effect of the circuit bodyweight training method on increasing muscle strength, muscle endurance, and balance of wrestling athlete. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(3); 138-144

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG143BD3

Abstract
This study aims to find out: (1) the effect of the circuit bodyweight training method on increasing muscle strength, muscle endurance, and balance of wrestling athletes, (2) the difference in the effect of the circuit bodyweight training method between the treatment group and the control group on increasing strength, muscle endurance, and balance of wrestling athletes. This type of research is quasi-experimental with a pre-test design and post-test control group design. The sample in this study amounted to 77 people taken using random sampling techniques. The subjects were divided into 2 groups, namely the group given the treatment of as many as 36 people and the control group with as many as 31 people. Instruments used to measure hand muscle strength are using a hand grip dynamometer, arm muscle endurance using a push-ap, abdominal muscle endurance using a sit-ap, Leg muscle strength using a wall sit test, and balance test using a standing stork test. The data analysis technique used is an independent sample t-test followed by a paired sample t-test. The results showed that: 1) There was a significant effect of the circuit bodyweight training method on increasing muscle strength, muscle endurance, and balance in wrestling athletes, in the treatment group evidenced by data on hand muscle strength, hand muscle endurance, abdominal muscle endurance, leg muscle strength, and balance obtained a significance value smaller than 0.05 (p < 0.05). 2) There is a significant difference in influence between the treatment group and the control group on increasing muscle strength, muscle endurance, and balance in wrestling athletes, as evidenced by the average value of hand muscle strength, hand muscle endurance, abdominal muscle endurance, Leg muscle strength, and balance in the treatment group was 60.46 while the average value of hand muscle strength, hand muscle endurance, abdominal muscle endurance, leg muscle strength, and balance in the control group was 48.54 with an average post-test difference of 11.92. So this study concluded that there was a significant increase in hand muscle strength, hand muscle endurance, abdominal muscle endurance, leg muscle strength, and balance before and after treatment, and there was no significant improvement in the control group. The treated group had better hand muscle strength, hand muscle endurance, abdominal muscle endurance, leg muscle strength, and balance compared to the untreated control group.

Keywords
circuit bodyweight training, muscle strength, muscular endurance, balance

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Use of the posturography platform as a tool for quantitative assessment of imbalance and postural control in post-stroke patients in chronic phase

Paulina Magdalena Ostrowska, Rita Hansdorfer-Korzon, Rafał Studnicki, Dawid Spychała


Paulina Magdalena Ostrowska, Rita Hansdorfer-Korzon, Rafał Studnicki, Dawid Spychała – Use of the posturography platform as a tool for quantitative assessment of imbalance and postural control in post-stroke patients in chronic phase. Fizjoterapia Polska 2023; 23(1); 142-163

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZG07B4A3

Abstract
Background. Imbalance during standing, which is usually observed as an asymmetry in the weight shifting toward to the unaffected side of the body, is one of the most common factors affecting the independence and quality of life of post-stroke patients. Clinical assessment of imbalance in post-stroke patients is often conducted by visual observation using standardised tools (balance tests). However, quantitative analysis, using a posturographic platform, is more accurate and provides more information about the patient’s functional status. The TYMO® device, used in this study, is a portable posturography platform that measures tilts of the body’s center of mass and reports the results of the rehabilitation process. It enables an objective, direct and quantitative assessment of the patient’s functional status. Such an assessment can contribute to significant effectiveness of physiotherapy and consequently improve the patient’s quality of life and shorten the period of abstinence from work. Objective. Quantitative assessment of imbalance and postural control using a posturography platform (TYMO®) in patients after ischaemic stroke, in the chronic phase, as an important component of the functional diagnosis process and rehabilitation programme design. To emphasise the role of the posturography platform (TYMO®) as a tool for measuring static balance – symmetry of body weight distribution, and a tool for monitoring and reporting the results of physiotherapy treatment. Methods. In the current study, before and after two weeks of rehabilitation, quantitative measurements of balance on the TYMO® platform were made in a group of subjects (n = 60: adults, after ischemic stroke – first stroke episode, in chronic phase – up to 5 years after the stroke incident occurred) undergoing therapy using neurophysiological methods (PNF – Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and NDT-Bobath – Neurodevelopmental Treatment according to the Bobath concept) and the SPIDER system (Strengthening Program for Intensive Developmental Exercises and activities for Reaching health capability). Measurements included: the distance marked by the patient’s center of mass while performing the test, the medial-lateral and anterior-posterior tilts of the subject’s body, the area of movement marked by the body’s center of mass, the average speed at which the patient performed the movement to maintain the required position, and the distribution of the subject’s weight. Based on the posturographic results obtained before therapy, it was possible to design a targeted rehabilitation programme. The magnitude of the difference in measurements before and after rehabilitation made it possible to assess the impact of the therapy on the patient’s balance. In addition, it was a specific indicator of the accuracy of the selection of physiotherapeutic treatment (a large difference in the mean results before and after therapy reflected an improvement in the parameters of postural control, hence the effectiveness of the therapy) and determined the direction of the future rehabilitation programme. Results and conclusions. The parameters measured by the TYMO® platform are crucial in assessing the functional status of post-stroke patients, especially with regard to postural control or balance disorders. The results described confirm the validity of using quantitative assessment, using the posturography platform, as an important component of the functional diagnostic process and designing an rehabilitation programme. The TYMO® platform itself is a useful tool for measuring, monitoring and reporting the effects of physiotherapeutic treatment in post-stroke patients.
Key words:
stroke, body weight distribution, balance, quantitative assessment, posturographic platform
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