The relationship between postural control and upper extremity skills in healthy young adults

Introduction: Postural control is the outcome of complex interactions involving many systems and structures to control body position in space. Appropriate postural control is essential to achieve and maintain movement. Therefore, postural control is required in performing upper extremity movements. Although the importance of providing postural control for movement is known, its relation with upper extremity skill is not known. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with upper extremity in determining postural control in healthy young adults. Methods: The study was planned as a cross-sectional study. The study included 68 students studying at the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation School of Kırşehir Ahi Evran University. Static and dynamic postural stability measurements of the participants were made with the help of an electronic balance device (Biodex Balance System). Upper extremity performance parameters of the participants were determined by Nine Hole Peg Test (9HPT), Six Minute Pegboard Ring Test (6MPRT), Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stabilization Test (CKCUE), Muscle Endurance Test, Medicine Ball Throw Test (BBTT) and Upper Extremity Flexibility Tests. It was evaluated. The relationship between independent variables was evaluated with Pearson Correlation analysis. Multiple Linear Regression analysis was used to determine the independent determinants of postural control. Results: A total of 68 person (38 women and 30 men) participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 21.19 (1.56) years. 6PBRT was found to be an independent predictor of static general stability index with 11% variance (p<0.05). 9DPT was found to be an independent predictor of static anterior-posterior stability index with a variance of 5.3% (p<0.05). 6PBRT (score) and STFT (m) were found to be independent predictors of static medial-lateral stability index with 16.5% variance (p<0.05). There was no correlation between dynamic stability index (total, anteroposterior and medial-lateral oscillations) and upper extremity functional parameters (p>0.05). Conclusion: It was found that upper extremity functions are determinants of static postural control in healthy young adults. We think that our study will be the basis for future studies on upper extremity functions and postural stabilization.