Dynamic Postural Instability in Individuals with High Body Mass Index

Abstract

Objective(s): To evaluate and compare static and dynamic balance between individuals with high body mass index (BMI) and normal BMI.Methods: This case-control study included 19 individuals with high BMI and 7 individuals with normal BMI. It was conducted at a regional level university setting. The center of pressure (COP) changes during double limb stance and single limb stance were obtained using a force plate (Brazil Do). The main COP outcome measures included total displacement, area of sway, amplitude, velocity, and mean power frequency changes in anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions.Results: During single limb stance, there was a significant difference in COP amplitude (cm) (p=0.015) and velocity (cm/s) (p=0.012) between the 2 groups in the AP direction. However, there were no significant differences found in the ML direction for amplitude (cm) (p=0.155) or velocity (cm/s) (p=0.186). There was no significant difference in the COP outcome measure for double limb stability for both the eyes closed and eyes opened conditions.Conclusion: Individuals with high BMI have impaired dynamic balance control in the AP direction reflected through higher COP amplitude and velocity. They have preserved stability in the ML direction during single limb stance stability. The COP changes during the double limb stance are unimpaired, both with eyes opened and closed.