Effect of neuromuscular balance on static balance in adult and elderly populations

Abstract

Introduction: Postural control has two behavioral goals: postural balance and orientation, which are achieved through a dynamic relationship between sensory information and muscle activity. To maintain body balance, the vestibular, optical and proprioceptive systems must be fully functioning. Neuromuscular balance (NB), developed by François Soulier, is a non-manipulative method that involves applying a soft vibration or a micro-thrust with a small mechanical device to a joint or vertebra in order to induce realignment and readjustment. Objective: To identify the biomechanical effect of NB upon static balance and body oscillations of adults and the elderly through stabilometry. Methodology: In this interventional study, 20 healthy volunteers - 10 young adults (aged between 18 and 30 years old) and 10 elderly (aged between 60 and 80 years old) - were subjected to 10 consecutive weekly NB sessions. Stabilometry was assessed at baseline and after the 10th intervention (center of pressure (COP) behavior parameters: total area in mm2, laterolateral and anteroposterior width in mm). Results: Anteroposterior as well as total area oscillations significantly decreased in the adult population (p<0.0179 and p<0.0242, respectively). Additionally, all parameters were reduced in both groups, although differences between pre and post intervention were not statistically significant. Conclusion: NB effectively decreased anteroposterior and total area oscillations of adult patients, positively contributing to static balance.

Efeito do equilíbrio neuromuscular na análise do equilíbrio estático em idosos / Effect of neuromuscular balance on static balance analysis in the elderly

“…O equilíbrio neuromuscular (ENM) foi desenvolvido por Soulier, após cinco anos de estudos, ao conhecer um aparelho chamado activador methodos, que é uma caneta a qual gera vibrações, criado por quiropratas, nos EUA, com o objetivo de substituir as mãos na realização de uma técnica manipulativa do sacro (SOULIER, et al 2006, TARTARI et al, 2020.…”