Design of a Freely Accessible Web Application (Instrument for the Measurement of Balance in Primary Education, IMEP) for the Assessment of Static and Dynamic Balance in Children Aged 6–9 Years Based on Force Platforms
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Background: The proper development of balance is essential in the acquisition of a correct physical condition, as well as in the evolutionary follow-up at early ages, and its periodic evaluation is very relevant in the educational environment. Objectives: The objective of this research was to design an accessible web application for static and dynamic balance assessment, based on a force platform and motion analysis software. Methods: The Single leg balance test (SLB), Tandem balance test (TBT), and Y balance test (YBT) were performed on a sample of 75 children aged 6 to 9 years. Results: The results show that static balance is more complex at an older age, greater standing height, and with eyes closed (p < 0.001). Regarding the center of pressure (COP), its variability was greater in girls owing to a lower Total Force (TF) at the time of the test (p < 0.05). Parallel observation with the Kinovea software has made it possible to elaborate a scale from 1 to 10 points for integration into an open-access web application (IMEP) to assess static and dynamic balance. Conclusions: The creation of an ad hoc application for primary school teachers and students has been possible by using validated devices obtaining a rating scale, which facilitate the monitoring of students’ functional evolution and offers the possibility of scheduling physical education sessions with a preventive approach as well as a focus on improving physical condition.
DOI: 10.3390/jfmk9040281
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,819
Funder: Universitat de València
OpenAlex ID: W4405724696