Article ID: 11206
Objectives: In this study, we aimed to measure the index of postural stability (IPS) and modified IPS (MIPS), both of which reflect dynamic balance capability, by using force plates. We also aimed to evaluate the repeatability of MIPS and the rubber IPS Romberg ratio (MIPS/IPS), and the effectiveness of MIPS.
Methods: The IPS, MIPS, and score in the balance capability test (one-foot standing with eyes closed [COFS]) were assessed for 80 healthy young subjects. The repeatability values of MIPS and MIPS/IPS were evaluated, considering systematic bias and random error. A histogram was generated for the effectiveness of MIPS, which was compared with that of the COFS score by using the Shapiro-Wilk test.
Results: Fixed bias was found in both the MIPS and MIPS/IPS. The intraclass correlation coefficient (1.1) was used as a measure of repeatability. The repeatability values of MIPS and MIPS/IPS were 0.723 and 0.616, respectively. The effectiveness of MIPS showed p values of 0.859. This result suggests that MIPS significantly follows a perfect normal distribution.
Discussion: MIPS can be considered a clinically applicable evaluation index. Furthermore, it can be an effective measure of balance capability of subjects in a wide age range.
