Instrumented Assessment of Static Balance Parameters and Their Association with Anthropometric Characteristics in Physiotherapy Students

Abstract

Balance is a key component of postural stability, and center of pressure (CoP) parameters enable objective assessment of postural control. This study examined associations between anthropometric characteristics and CoP parameters during the Single-Leg Stance Test (SLS) in physiotherapy students. This cross-sectional observational study included 69 students from the Medical Rehabilitation undergraduate degree at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia, grouped according to year of study (first and fourth). Participants underwent anthropometric measurements and static balance assessment using the SLS with eyes open and closed, with CoP parameters recorded using the Vicon® system and a force plate. CoP excursion in the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions and CoP mean velocity (CoP MV) were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s correlation (p < 0.05). In first-year students, CoP MV was positively correlated with body mass and BMI during right-leg stance with eyes open (r = 0.457, p < 0.05; r = 0.466, p < 0.05). In fourth-year students, CoP MV was positively correlated with body height and left lower limb length during left-leg stance with eyes open (r = 0.485, p < 0.01; r = 0.500, p < 0.01). Overall, CoP MV demonstrated the greatest number of significant associations. These findings suggest associations between anthropometric characteristics and selected static balance parameters in physiotherapy students.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Sensors, 2026 · DOI ↗