Effects of proprioceptive stimulation to the head on body orientation and body movements

Abstract

This study analyzed the effects of sensory stimulation to the head using a headband on body orientation ability, joint movement, and physical activity in healthy adults. The results showed a significant increase in the scores assessing body orientation ability with the use of the headband. Additionally, the range of motion for head rotation and the finger-floor distance significantly increased while wearing the headband. Moreover, a specially designed headband with areas of varying pressure in the front, back, and sides demonstrated a stronger tendency to improve head rotation and forward bending compared to a commercially available headband. It was inferred that the headband enhanced sensory input from the head, thereby improving body orientation ability and subsequently enhancing movement.