Investigation of the Effects of Posture and Proprioception Sense on Balance and Gait

Abstract

The aim of this research is to evaluate the effects of individual differences in head posture, balance parameters, and proprioception on balance and gait in asymptomatic individuals. The research was conducted with 111 participants. Balance and walking ability, range of motion of the cervical spine, body posture, proprioception sense, and both static and dynamic balance assessments were carried out. The relationship of the Timed Up and Go Test with various independent variables such as head forward tilt, proprioceptive error, Flamingo Test score, Functional Reach Test score, and Y Balance Test score was examined. There was a significant negative correlation between the Timed Up and Go Test score and the Functional Reaching Test score and the Y Balance Test score at p = 0.05 statistical significance level. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify variables predicting balance and gait performance. The results showed that there is no statistically significant relationship between the Timed Up and Go Test score and any of the predictive variables. The findings indicated that impairments in upper extremity reaching capacity and particular aspects of dynamic equilibrium could potentially be associated with the prolonged duration of the Timed Up and Go Test. The aforementioned discoveries hold significance for evaluating and restoring the physical abilities of people with mobility limitations.