Effects of compression socks on postural balance using Biodex Stability System among university netball players

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of wearing compression socks on postural balance in university netball players. Fourteen advanced learner netball players performed three trials of 20 seconds each of dynamic postural balance test on Biodex Stability System, while wearing two socks, (a) Normal Socks and (b) Compression Socks. Data on overall, anterior/posterior and medial/lateral stability indexes were analyzed using Paired Sample T-tests. The results revealed that wearing compression materials significantly enhanced static and dynamic postural balance among the university netball players. The improvements in these key variables are likely due to enhanced somatosensory feedback information which allowed the lower limbs to better regulate postural stability. It is suggested that compression socks can be used by university netball players to improve their postural stability.