Abstract
[Purpose] This study investigated the effects of changes in ankle angle on standing balance. [Subjects] Twelve healthy young individuals. [Methods] The subjects performed static and dynamic balance tasks on a 20˚ sloping platform (ankle plantarflexion or dorsiflexion) and a flat platform (control, 0˚). The position of the center of mass and the joint angles of the lower limbs were measured with a three-dimensional motion analysis system. [Results] The vertical position of the center of mass in plantarflexion was the highest among three ankle conditions. There were no significant differences in hip and knee joint angles among three ankle conditions during the static balance. Dynamic balance ability during ankle dorsiflexion was significantly lower than during plantarflexion and control positions. During the dynamic task with dorsiflexion, hip motion increased and knee motion was antiphase compared with the control angle. [Conclusion] The results suggest changes in ankle angle influence dynamic postural control during the standing posture.
