UPPER LIMB RELATED FACTORS IN DETERMINING POSTURAL CONTROL

Postural control is an outcome of complex interactions between many systems and structures to control body position in space. Appropriate postural control is necessary for the initiation and continuation of movements in different body parts, such as the upper limbs. Although the importance of maintaining postural control for movement is well recognized, its relationship with upper limb functions is unknown. The present study investigated the factors related to the upper limb in determining postural control in healthy young adults. We included 68 non-symptomatic individuals in this cross-sectional study. The static and dynamic postural stability and upper limb performance parameters of the participants were evaluated. Multiple Linear Regression analysis was performed to determine the independent determinants of postural control. According to the results of the analysis, Six Minute Peg Board Ring Test (6PBRT) explaining 11% of the variance was the independent determinant of static general stability index (p < 0.05). Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) explaining 5.3% of the variance was the independent determinant of static anterior-posterior stability index (p < 0.05). The 6PBRT and Medicine Ball Chest Launch Test (MBCLT) explaining 16.5% of the variance were found as independent determinants of static medial-lateral stability index (p < 0.05). There was no significant relationship between dynamic stability indices and upper extremity functional parameters (p > 0.05). It was concluded that upper limb functions were a determinant of static postural control in non-symptomatic young adults.