Evaluation of Postural Stability in Pregnant Women

Aim: The hormonal, physiological and anatomical changes throughout pregnancy affect the musculoskeletal system that lead to postural instability which may impair their lifestyles and increased risk of collapses. This study was aimed to assess postural balance in females during the second and third trimester of pregnancy.

Study Design: A case control study.

Place and Duration of Study: Biomechanics lab. IN Faculty of Physical Education at Kafrelsheikh University, between February and July 2015.

Methodology: In this study, postural stability throughout the second and third trimester was measured using the Biodex Balance System (BBS) in 14 pregnant females (age range 25-30 years). The overall (OA), anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) stability index scores were obtained at level 8 and 7.

Results: The mean OA, AP and ML scores were significantly higher in the third trimester compared to second trimester (P <.05). There was no significant difference in the ML between the stability level 8 and 7 (P >.05) during the second or third trimester.

Conclusion: Pregnant females have poor postural stability as well as decreased postural equilibrium in the third trimester compared with the second trimester of pregnancy.