Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026
08:12
Experimental Methods to Study Human Postural Control
Published on: September 11, 2019
Training effects of two different unstable shoe constructions on postural control in static and dynamic testing
Stephan Turbanski1, Heinz Lohrer, Tanja Nauck
1Goethe-University, Institute of Sport Sciences, 60487 Frankfurt/Main, Germany. turbanski@sport.uni-frankfurt.de
Summary
Unstable shoe training, particularly with Reflex Control® (RC) shoes, significantly improved dynamic postural control in healthy adults. Static balance showed no significant changes with either MBT® or RC shoe interventions.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Motor Control
- Sports Science
Background:
- Postural control is crucial for balance and injury prevention.
- Unstable shoe constructions are designed to challenge sensorimotor systems.
- Previous research on their effectiveness has yielded mixed results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of two different unstable shoe constructions (MBT® and Reflex Control®) on postural control.
- To investigate training effects on sensorimotor exercises in healthy subjects.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-nine healthy subjects were divided into three groups: MBT® shoes, Reflex Control® (RC) shoes, and a control group.
- Experimental groups underwent a 6-week sensorimotor exercise program with their assigned unstable shoes.
- Postural control was assessed using static (force plate) and dynamic (moveable platform) one-leg stance tests before and after the intervention.
Main Results:
- No significant improvements in static postural sway were observed in either unstable shoe group compared to the control.
- The RC group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in dynamic postural control.
- The MBT® group did not show significant improvements in dynamic postural control compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
- Exercises with unstable shoe constructions can enhance postural control, but effects are condition-specific.
- Reflex Control® shoes showed efficacy in improving dynamic balance.
- Static balance training with unstable shoes did not yield significant benefits in this study.
