Influence of Visual Input and Occlusal Conditions on Static and Dynamic Postural Control in Female University Badminton Players

Abstract

Mutsumi Takahashi*, Yogetsu Bandor, Kazumasa Sakai and Takuya Fukui

Objective: The purpose of this study is to clarify the effects of vision and occlusion on static and dynamic balance control in badminton players.

Methods: Participants were 17 female badminton players (19.5±1.4 years). Static balance was measured with eyes open and eyes closed, using sway area (SA), sway path length per unit area (SPUA), and the Romberg ratio (RR) as evaluation indices. Dynamic balance was assessed using the cross-test, with the R/E value serving as the evaluation metric. Measurement conditions for static balance were the mandibular rest position (RP) and the centric occlusion (CO), whereas the evaluation indices for dynamic balance involved three conditions: these two plus the condition of no occlusal instructions (FR). Statistical analyses were performed to examine differences in static balance based on visual and occlusal conditions, as well as differences in dynamic balance based on occlusal conditions.

Results: Under CO conditions, SA values were significantly lower with eyes open. With the eyes open, compared to the RP condition, the SA was significantly lower and the SPUA was significantly higher in the CO condition. RR showed significantly higher values under the CO condition. The R/E value was highest under the FR condition.

Conclusions: This study indicated that, visual feedback contributes to postural control and that occlusion is advantageous in a static environment. Conversely, in a dynamic environment, it is suggested that the freedom of movement allowing for the unconscious and phasic switching between occlusion and jaw opening facilitates balance performance.

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