Introduction Maintaining balance while walking is of utmost importance for individuals with visual impairments because deficits in dynamic balance have been associated with a high risk of falling. Thus, the primary aim of the study presented here was to determine whether balance training effects the dynamic balance of children with visual impairments. Methods The study included 19 children with visual impairments (aged 8 to 14) from the school for students with visual impairments in Isfahan, Iran, who were randomly assigned to a balance-training (n = 9) or control (n = 10) group. The balance-training group was required to participate in an eight-week balance-training program, while the control group did not participate in any organized balance-training program. The Modified Bass Test of Dynamic Balance was used to measure the dynamic balance of the participants. Both groups performed a pretest prior to the experimental period and performed a posttest immediately after the experimental period. Results The scores on the pretest showed no significant difference between the balance-training group and the control group. However, after the balance-training group completed the balance-training program, a between-group difference was found in the participants’ task scores, t (18) = 4.095, p < .05. Discussion The findings indicate that involvement in a balance-training program will significantly improve the dynamic balance of individuals with visual impairments relative to a control group. Implications for practitioners The study showed that if instructors require individuals with visual impairments to perform balance-improving exercises, the result can be an outstanding improvement in their dynamic balance. With improved balance, individuals with visual impairments may encounter fewer falls and experience a healthier lifestyle.

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Background. The adhesive taping is supposed to improve joint stability and proprioception and enhance the physical protection in unpredictable situations. Hypothesis/purpose. The aim of present study was to compare the effect of facilitatory gastrocnemius taping on dynamic balance and muscle activity during Y-balance test in healthy middle-age men. Study design. Double-blinded (participant, assessor) randomized control trial. Methods. 30 healthy middle-age men who were not routinely involved in exercise program were randomly assigned in Kinesio Taping® and sham group. They took part in Y-balance test before, immediately, 20 minutes and 24 hours after taping. Y-balance records and medial and lateral gastrocnemius activity were reported for each test. Between group and within group changes were analyzed using independent T test and repeated measures. Correlation between Y-balance record and gastrocnemius activity were be analyzed using person correlation test.

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Author SAMJ conceived of the review, analysed the original papers, and composed the first draft. Both authors collaborated to design, and manage, the review. Both authors read and approved of the final manuscript.