Development of Postural Equilibrium Tests for Examining Environmental Effects

Abstract

The postural balance of 18 college students was measured with a modified version of the Fregly-Graybiel Battery of ataxia tests. The intention was to improve the stability of the tests and to ascertain which produced the most reliable results. Four tests of walking and standing were administered twice a day over five days. Subjects performed the tests in an erect position with their arms crossed and their eyes closed. Performance gradually increased with practice. Factor analysis implied three factors account for most of the variance of the four tests. The Stand-on-nonpreferred Leg (SONL) test was the most reliable and is recommended for the most economical assessment of highly transitory postural effects due to environmental factors, e.g., toxic materials.