The Static Balance Performance Prediction Based on Arousal and Activation in Circadian Rhythm

Abstract

Background and Aims Time-of-day is a factor that could affect balance performance. On the other hand, arousal fluctuates throughout the day. The aim of this study was to investigate the static balance performance prediction based on arousal and activation in circadian rhythm. Methods In the current study, 30 healthy subjects (age= 21± 0.5 years) participated. Static balance performance was measured three times: 10:00 am, 15:00 pm, and 8:00 pm. Arousal was recorded continuously during the performance of the balance task. A balance scoring test (BESS) and a Bioderm device were used to measure static balance and arousal. Repeated measures ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Results Results indicated that balance performance was greater at 3:00 pm than at 8:00 pm and 10:00 am (P<0.05). The relationship between activation and static balance performance was significant (P<0.05), while no significant relationship was found between arousal and static balance performance. Also, the intensity of activation correlation and static balance performance was higher at 3:00 pm (P<0.05, r=-0.46). The regression results showed that activation was a significant predictor at three different times of the day. Conclusion According to the results, these findings can provide evidence for differentiation between arousal and activation as separable aspects of the energetics of physiological and behavioral function. It also introduces activation as a factor that raises the static balance in the afternoon to morning and evening.

Keywords

• arousal
• activation
• skin conductance level
• static balance
• performance