Relationships among Lower Extremity Muscle Circumference, Proprioception, ROM, Muscle Strength, and Balance Control Ability in Young Adults

Abstract

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to analyze the correlation between balance control ability and leg circumference, proprioception, range of motion (ROM), and muscle strength in young adults. Methods:The subjects of this study were 30 university students who were enrolled in D university in Gyeongbuk province. We measured the dynamic balance and static balance using the Biorescue. The muscular strengths of the hip, knee, and ankle joints were measured using a muscle contraction dynamometer. The ROM and proprioception were measured using an inclinometer. Pearson correlation analysis was used to test the correlations between balance control ability and variables. Results: Sway length was significantly correlated with knee and hip joint muscle strength, ROM, and proprioception of hip and ankle joints (p< 0.05). Sway speed was significantly correlated with ROM and proprioception in hip joints (p< 0.05). Limit of stability was significantly correlated with muscle strength and ROM in ankle joints, and proprioception in hip, knee, and ankle joints (p< 0.05) Conclusion: The sway length was most related to hip extension and ankle joint plantar flexion in the range of motion and ankle joint plantar flexion in proprioception. Overall, balance training for young adults will be of effective help if the treatment focuses on the knee and hip joints, range of motion and the ankle and hip joints' proprioception.

The Influence of Knee Extensor and Ankle Plantar Flexor Strength on Single-Leg Standing Balance in Older Women

“…During single-leg standing, the knee and ankle muscles work together to maintain balance [ 16 ]. Knee extensor (KE) and ankle plantar flexor (AP) muscle strengths are important for standing balance as they are responsible for maintaining upright posture and pushing the body forward and upward [ 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. In contrast, knee flexor and ankle dorsiflexor muscles play a secondary role in maintaining balance, with their contribution being relatively small [ 19 , 21 ].…”

“…Knee extensor (KE) and ankle plantar flexor (AP) muscle strengths are important for standing balance as they are responsible for maintaining upright posture and pushing the body forward and upward [ 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 ]. In contrast, knee flexor and ankle dorsiflexor muscles play a secondary role in maintaining balance, with their contribution being relatively small [ 19 , 21 ]. The KE muscles, including the quadriceps, work to extend the knee joint and prevent it from collapsing [ 22 ], while the AP muscles, including the gastrocnemius and soleus, work to maintain ankle stability and prevent the foot from rolling inward or outward [ 17 ].…”