Abstract



Purpose: Optimal postural control requires an integrated sensorimotor control system, in which afferent information from the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems is integrated to maintain body stability. Additionally, secondary cognitive tasks affect postural control differently, largely depending on sensory conditions and the type of task. Therefore, the present study investigated the manipulation of proprioception and vision, with emphasis on the role of a secondary cognitive task, on balance in adolescent girls.



Materials and Methods: The present study employed a quasi-experimental design. Participants were 30 girls aged 10–12 years, selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups using block randomization. Participants' balance was assessed using the Biodex Balance System under conditions of standing on a firm surface and foam, with eyes open and closed. Data were analyzed using mixed ANOVA.



Results: Under the eyes-open/firm-surface condition (P = 0.001), eyes-closed condition (P = 0.03), and foam condition (P = 0.04), the group with the cognitive task showed significantly greater sway. In the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral indices, a significant difference was observed between the two groups in all three conditions (P = 0.001); based on the means, the group with the cognitive task demonstrated greater sway.



Conclusion:, vision and the secondary cognitive task were among the most important factors influencing balance in adolescent girls; performing secondary cognitive tasks led to reduced balance in them. Therefore, it is recommended multisensory training combined with a secondary cognitive task be used in adolescents to enhance their attentional capacity.