Actively Recruiting
Enhancing Postural Control in Older Adults by Increasing Somatosensory Contribution
Led by University of Oklahoma · Updated on 2026-04-28
30
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
8 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating postural control in adults aged 65 and older through a 2-week dynamic balance training program. The study aims to understand how restricted vision training might help older adults rely more on somatosensory input to improve balance and reduce fall risk. The study compares two groups: one training with blindfolds (restricted vision) and one with full vision, focusing on balance during gait initiation and static standing. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the restricted vision group or the full vision group. Both groups undergo dynamic balance training using a stabilometer, a platform that allows controlled swaying. Training sessions occur six times over two weeks. The restricted vision group performs tasks blindfolded, while the full vision group trains with normal sight. Safety harnesses may be used to prevent falls during training. Before and after the training, participants complete assessments including balance questionnaires, physical activity and quality of life surveys, and clinical balance tests. Postural control is measured using force plates to track the center of pressure during gait initiation and standing tasks with various sensory conditions. The study monitors improvements in balance control and somatosensory reliance within three weeks of enrollment.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Postural Control in Adults
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age 65 years or older
- Able to walk continuously for at least 10 minutes without an assistive device
- Have normal or corrected-to-normal vision
You will not qualify if you...
- Neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or brain tumor that significantly affect balance and walking
- Known peripheral neuropathy affecting sensation
- Known vestibular dysfunction
- Known cognitive impairments
- Self-reported pain or musculoskeletal conditions significantly affecting balance and walking
- Drug use in the past 3 months
- At-risk drinker status
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants complete questionnaires and clinical assessments to record demographics, physical activity level, quality of life, psychological characteristics, balance ability, and proprioception.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 2 weeks
Participants undergo dynamic balance training over 2 weeks involving six sessions where they stand and maintain balance on a stabilometer. Training differs based on group assignment with either restricted vision (blind-fold) or full vision.
6 visits (in-person) over 2 weeks
Duration - 1 day
Participants complete post-intervention assessments including gait initiation tasks and the Modified Clinical Test for Sensory Interaction on Balance (CTSIB-M) to evaluate changes in balance and somatosensory reliance.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States, 73117
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
Y
Yo Shih, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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