Comparison of the Static and Dynamic Balance Abilities of Healthy Adults Wearing Three Different Types of Five-toed Socks

Abstract

[Purpose] This study compared the static and dynamic balance abilities of healthy adults wearing three different types of five-toed socks. [Participants and Methods] Twenty-three students were analyzed using a stabilometer (Balance Corder BW-6000, Anima Co., Ltd.), and static balance ability, locus length, rectangular area, anteroposterior speed, mediolateral speed, and dynamic balance ability were measured using the Index of Postural Stability (IPS). There were three types of socks: five-toed socks, five-toed socks with multiple rubber bits on the soles of the foot, and padded five-toed socks. [Results] Wearing padded five-toed socks resulted in a significantly higher IPS. [Conclusion] The subjects showed a better dynamic balance ability when wearing the padded five-toed socks compared to the other socks.