[Purpose] To investigate the correlation between joint position sense (JPS) during hip abduction and static/dynamic balance abilities. [Method] The study enrolled 22 healthy college undergraduates and a smartphone application known as Clinometer was used to measure JPS during hip abduction using the passive setting/active reproduction. Balance ability was measured at levels 12, 7, and 3 of the Biodex Balance System. The JPS error during hip abduction was correlated with balance ability in relation to sway level. [Results] Error in JPS during hip abduction was moderately correlated with all balance scores at all sway levels (r≥0.38, p≤0.04 for all), except for the anterior-posterior balance at levels 12 and 3 (r≤0.24, p≥0.30 for both). [Conclusion] A significant correlation existed between JPS during hip abduction and balance ability, regardless of sway level. Therefore, adequate sensory training of the hip joint is needed during balance training.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of static stretching of the calf muscle on ankle position sense and dynamic balance ability following microwave diathermy. Participants were 28 healthy young students in their 20 s, who were divided into a microwave diathermy stretching group (MSG) and a stretching group (SG). A microwave was emitted to the calf muscle area to participants in the MSG. Static stretching was performed by standing on a quadriceps board for 15 minutes. The angle of the wedge was set to a range of 15–25°, representing a level of pain and discomfort allowed by the subjects. Before and after intervention, ankle dorsi-plantar flexion joint position sense (JPS) and dynamic balance ability were measured. The group source affected JPS error of dorsi-plantar flexion (p < 0.05) and JPS error increased with the SG more than the MSG. There was an increase in the dynamic balance score in both groups after the intervention compared to before the intervention. Microwave therapy prior to stretching can preserve JPS and balance ability, thereby reducing the risk of injuries from activities after stretching.