Balance Training Equipment

Balance is a state of physical equilibrium where the body’s center of mass/gravity is positioned to be able to maintain a proper upright posture. This is achieved through the input and integrated functions of the somatosensory, visual, and vestibular systems of the central nervous system. The best balance exercise equipment will challenge all of these sensory input mechanisms.

1- Somatosensory Input: Somatosensory receptors are located in the joints capsules, tendons, muscles, ligaments and skin and when activated by specific stimuli – stretch, length, tension, mechanical pressure, joint movement and position, and pain – provide their respective proprioceptor feedback to the central nervous system.

• How the somatosensory system is challenged: By subjecting the individual to changing surfaces, and by narrowing the base of support on those surfaces, and how they respond to the challenges.
  
  

2- Visual Input: Visual receptors of the eye provide feedback to the brain related to vertical position, motion of object and self, postural sway, orientation to environment, and body movements, especially of the head and neck.

• How the visual system is challenged: By having the individual stand with eyes open to observe surroundings, then observe balance strategies to maintain the center of mass over the base of support with and without visual input.

3- Vestibular Input: The vestibular system consists of a labyrinth of three semicircular canals filled with endolymph and two otolith organs. Semicircular canals respond to the movement of fluid with head motion, and the otoliths measure the effects of gravity and movement with regard to acceleration and deceleration.

• How the vestibular system is challenged: By having the individual stand and observe their balance with movement of the head. There are various tests designed to assess the integrity of the vestibular system such as Dix-Hallpike Test.

The best balance exercise equipment will challenge all three components of balance (Somatosensory, Visual, Vestibular), individually and in combination.

There are several balance training devices/equipment that have been developed to challenge – assess and train – the somatosensory system. These include balance balls, foam balance pads, pillows, BOSU, balance discs, balance boards, domes, wedges, rebounder, balance training stairs, etc. Balance is one of the most fundamental elements in being healthy, being able to move about in safety and efficiency, and in achieving athletic success. The Best Balance Exercise Training equipment from ProHealthcareProducts.com is designed to perform specific and general functions to help with balance, whether you are a therapist working on rehabilitation for a patient suffering from an injury or condition, or an athlete looking to improve performance.