Influence Of Visual And Auditory Deprivation On Sway Amplitude
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Abstract
Background
Postural control depends on the integration of visual, vestibular, and somatosensory systems. Alteration in sensory input may influence balance and sway amplitude.
Objective: To determine the influence of visual and auditory deprivation on sway amplitude in young healthy adults.
Methods: An observational study was conducted among 98 participants aged 17–25 years using convenience sampling at JSS College of Physiotherapy, Mysuru. Postural sway was assessed under three conditions: eyes open (EO), auditory deprivation (AD), and visual deprivation (VD). Participants were made to stand for one minute while sway was recorded using two high-resolution cameras in anterior and lateral views. Analysis was performed using Kinovea software. Repeated measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: A significant increase in sway amplitude was observed during visual deprivation compared to eyes open and auditory deprivation. Anterior sway (2.66 ± 1.372) and latero-medial sway (1.99 ± 1.125) were highest in visual deprivation (p < 0.001). Posterior sway also increased under visual deprivation (0.43 ± 0.699; p < 0.003). No significant difference was observed between eyes open and auditory deprivation across all directions.
Conclusion: Visual deprivation significantly affects postural stability, whereas auditory deprivation has minimal influence. Vision plays a dominant role in balance control, highlighting the importance of sensory integration in maintaining postural stability.
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References
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