Sex differences in postural control maturation during childhood and adolescence: a cross-sectional study in children between 4 and 17 years old (Diferencias de sexo en la maduración del control postural durante la infancia y la adolescencia: un estudio t

• Published in: Retos (Madrid) 2022-01, Vol.45, p.1099
• Main Authors: Xavier García Massó, Israel Villarrasa Sapiña, Pellicer Chenoll, Maria Teresa, Bermejo Ruiz, Jose Luis, Gonzalo Monfort Torres, Adrià Marco Ahulló
• Format: Article
• Language: eng ; spa
• Subjects: Adolescents; Child development; Children & youth; Cross-sectional studies; Females; Gender differences; Males; Velocity
• ISSN: 1579-1726; 1988-2041
• DOI: 10.47197/retos.v45i0.91650

Purpose: the aim of this study was to determine the differences between the sexes in the development of postural control during childhood and adolescence. Methods: Three hundred and eighty-nine children were involved in a 30-s trial with eyes open and a 30-s trial with eyes closed. Using a Wii Balance Board, the mean velocity and median frequency in antero-posterior and medio-lateral directions were calculated, as well as the 95% confidence interval ellipse area. Results: The results showed that the youngest boys (4-5 years old) had a greater ellipse area than girls of the same age, while the girls in this age group showed a greater ellipse area ratio, although these differences disappeared until 12-13 years old. At this age, the boys showed greater mean velocity in antero-posterior direction both with eyes open and closed, as well as a greater ellipse area and mean velocity in the medio-lateral direction with eyes open. At 16-17 years old, the boys had lower mean velocity in the medio-lateral direction both with eyes open and eyes closed. Conclusions: In conclusion, the results indicate certain differences in the postural control maturation of girls and boys during childhood and adolescence.