Should Balance Be Unstable?

Introduction to Balance

Hello everyone, welcome to this new episode of the lab quarter hour. Today, we will discuss a topic that concerns everyone: balance. But be careful, we won't be talking about balance as it's understood in gyms or on social media. Balance isn't just about standing on an unstable surface.

The Neuroanatomy of Balance

We are going to explore what the neuroanatomy of balance reveals. Often, people think that to improve their balance, they just need to work on unstable surfaces like a balance board or an inflatable cushion. However, this idea is misleading.

Reflex Stability vs. Instability

Balance is not merely about instability; it primarily relies on reflex stability, rooted in our nervous system. If you place someone on an unstable surface without them having acquired reflex stability, you will only create muscular compensations and additional stress for the brain.

Systems Involved in Balance

Balance is a multisensory function, resulting from the real-time integration of three main systems:

• Vestibular System: It detects gravity, accelerations, and head rotations.
• Visual System: It informs about the body's position in relation to the environment.
• Proprioceptive System: It provides the position of body segments through specific sensors.

Reflex Stability

Reflex stability is the body's ability to remain stable without conscious effort, thanks to automatic sensorimotor loops. This means that when you are sitting in a chair, your body stabilizes without you thinking about it.

Levels of Reflex Stability

There are three levels of reflex stability:

• Proactive: Established from childhood, it depends on sensory sensors.
• Voluntary Movement: When reflex stability is ensured, the brain can release resources for precise movement.
• Reactive: The ability to regain balance after a disturbance, such as during a jump.

The Link Between Posture, Emotions, and Cognition

Posture is automatically adjusted via the vestibular system, and this link has a direct impact on our emotions and cognition. In neuro-postural reprogramming, it is essential to restore this sensory dialogue before seeking to enhance performance.

Practical Application

To test your vestibular system, try this simple exercise: stand up, arms crossed, feet together. Look at a target in front of you, then close your eyes after 20-30 seconds and assess your stability. You can also quickly turn your head to test your semicircular canals.

Conclusion

Balance does not develop on an unstable cushion, but in your inner ears, your eyes, and through the integration of this information by the brain. In neuro-postural reprogramming, we first restore reflex stability, then release voluntary movement, and finally, solidify reactive stability. For a complete sensory assessment, you may find that the issue does not stem from your muscles, but from your sensors. Thank you for listening, and see you soon!