Sensory-motor training-an update

摘要

Balance is an often ignored, yet key musculoskele-tal function. It has been known for many years that poor balance is related to ankle sprain risk (Tropp et al., 1984). New evidence validates its association with falls, low back pain (LBP), osteoarthritis of the knee, neck problems, and other disabling conditions (Mok et al., 2004; Rose, 2003a, b; McGill et al., 2003; Michaelson and Michaelson, 2003; Mientjes and Frank, 1999; Wegener et al., 1997). That this is not a coincidental finding is confirmed by studies showing that balance training is an effective treatment addressing fall prevention, ankle instability, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) post-surgical rehabilitation, (Fitzgerald et al., 2000; Wolf et al., 1996; Rozzi et al., 1999). A previous article in this series summarized the assessment and treatment of balance (Liebenson, 2001). This paper provides an update based on new evidence.