Date of Award

Spring 5-2017

Degree Type

Honors College Thesis

Department

Kinesiology

First Advisor

Scott Piland

Advisor Department

Kinesiology

Abstract

The application of compression garments for various purposes has become popular in recent years. Research regarding the effectiveness of these garments has shown an increase in variables such as increased blood flow, decreased post-exercise soreness, and increased joint position awareness. However, little research is available concerning their possible use to increase joint stability. This research examined the efficacy of graduated compression stockings (GCS) to increase proprioceptive feedback from the ankle joint. It was hypothesized that continuous stimulation of sensory receptors in the ankle region by use of GCS would improve an individual’s static unilateral balance. Seventeen females (age: 20 +/- 1.118) without previous ankle, knee, or hip injury in their dominant leg were selected for participation in the study. For each subject, there were eyes-opened versus eyes-closed, sock versus no-sock, and immovable platform versus movable platform conditions. Using a Balance System SD, subjects’ unilateral balance was measured for each of the eight testing condition combinations. No statistically significant differences were found between the conditions.

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