Abstract
The purpose of this study was to verify the hypothesis that weights loaded on the body affects static standing balance. We compared the standing balance sway of the center of gravity with or without weights. Five healthy subjects were participated in the first study. The postural sway was measured with the center of foot pressure monitor in ten conditions. As a result, the center of foot pressure was found to decrease most at a 10% foot load. 30 healthy subjects and 25 subjects with hemiplegia were participated in the second study. We compared the center of foot pressure on two conditions (without load and 10% foot load). As a result for both healthy persons and hemiplegia patients on four parameter values of Length, REC-Area, SD of X and SD of Y, 10% foot load showed more decrease of sway. Foot load was noted to be a primary factor of standing balance stability.
