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Visual impairment affects postural control
Eur J Ophthalmol. 2011;21(3):303-309.
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Postural control in congenitally blind subjects was significantly more stable than in individuals with acquired visual impairment, a study found.
Eleven subjects with congenital blindness and 39 subjects with acquired visual impairment were examined and compared with 50 healthy subjects. The Tetrax Interactive Balance System (Sunlight-BeamMed) was used to assess pressure fluctuations, and results of the stability index and Fourier spectral analysis were examined in each sensory test.
Sensory tests consisted of eyes open while standing on a solid surface, which was used as a reference value; eyes closed while standing on a solid surface or eyes open while standing on foam pads; and eyes closed while standing on foam pads.
The congenitally blind subjects reacted similarly to the control group when eyes were open, yet their stability was superior to normal when eyes were closed.
"This study demonstrates clearly that persistent visual impairment induces changes in the interaction between the postural control subsystems," the study authors said.
From a clinical perspective, the study authors said that training of somatosensory and vestibular functions "would contribute to the rehabilitation of postural deficit in these subjects, especially with aging, and reduce the risk of falls."