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Experimental Methods to Study Human Postural Control
Published on: September 11, 2019
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The Effects of Static Stretching On Dynamic Postural Control During Maximum Forward Leaning Task
Kensuke Oba1,2, Moeka Ohta2, Hiroki Mani3
1Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
Journal of Motor Behavior
|June 21, 2021
Summary
Static stretching of ankle plantar flexors enhances dynamic postural control. Five minutes of stretching increased ankle range of motion and improved the anterior limit of stability during maximal forward leaning.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Movement Science
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Postural control is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing falls.
- Ankle range of motion influences dynamic postural stability.
- The effects of static stretching on dynamic postural control require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of static stretching on ankle plantar flexors on postural control.
- To assess changes in the center of pressure (COP) during maximal forward leaning after stretching.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-six healthy males were divided into stretching and control groups.
- Static stretching of ankle plantar flexors was applied for 5 minutes.
- Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) and COP excursion during maximal forward leaning were measured before and after the intervention.
Main Results:
- Static stretching significantly increased ankle dorsiflexion ROM.
- Post-stretching, COP position and velocity during maximal forward leaning increased significantly.
- The stretching group showed greater increases in COP position and velocity compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
- Five minutes of static stretching improves dynamic postural control.
- Static stretching enhances the anterior limit of stability and leads to a faster center of pressure shift.
- Static stretching may be a beneficial intervention for improving dynamic balance.
