Evaluation of Effect of Soft Ankle Support on Dynamic and Static Balance in Elderly

Proprioceptive information that is prepared with brace is needed for balance. The purpose of this study is determining the effect of soft ankle support on static and dynamic balance tests in elderly. In this random clinical trial study we evaluate 22 older adult in two groups (case and control). Static balance is evaluated with double leg standing, tandem standing and single leg standing that is executed in three different situations (on firm surface with open eye, on firm surface with closed eye and on soft surface withclosed eye) Dynamic balance is evaluated with 5 repetitive chairstanding, timed walking (twice), functional reach (with open and closed eye) and four square stepping test. ANOVA Repetitive measure test is used for comparing case and control performance. Findings don’t show any difference between different stage of evaluation before and after bracing in static and dynamic balance tests in case and control groups. (All P value more than 0.05) Only four square step test have better performance in case group (P=0.017) As we know joint supporter enhance joint proprioception in non weight bearing position but this information is less than enhancing balance performance (in weight bearing positions). Furthermore we haven’t any limitation because ofbalance treat for prescription of supporter for other goals.