Aging and Postural Stability

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between the toe's pressure and tactile sense and measures of postural stability. SUBJECTS: The subjects of the study were 21 healthy volunteers who were divided into two age groups: young group (mean 21.0 ± 1.6 years): 7 males and 6 females, elderly group (mean 71.4 ± 2.8 years): 4 males and 4 females. METHODS AND MATERIALS: First experiment (balance test): The instrument for measuring standing balance was a stabilometer. A computer program built into the device provides information on the subject's stance balance through calculation of two variables: (1) Body sway index (SI: mm), and (2) Foot pressure (%BW/cm²). The subjects were asked to stand as motionless as possible for 20 seconds. The same test was repeated with the subject's eyes closed. Second experiment (tactile sense test): utilized a new system which was developed to measure tactile-proprioceptive sensation. The tactile threshold value was measured with the subject seated in a ...

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