Objective: To present the results of weekly occupational therapy using weight bands to help children with unstable balance regulate their center-of-pressure sway.
Methods: The study involved seven children aged 5–6 years with developmental disabilities who exhibited instability when standing on one leg.
Two 250g weight bands were attached around their waist, and they participated in 30-minute occupational therapy sessions once a week. A pressure distribution measurement system was used to assess center-of-pressure (COP) sway for 10 seconds at the beginning and end of each session with weight bands and without that. Measurements were taken every two sessions. The duration of standing on one leg was recorded, along with the maximum and minimum COP sway values along the X- and Y-axes. Sway area was calculated based on data measured every 0.02 seconds.
Results: A comparison between the first and third sessions revealed a slight improvement in balance. The average duration of standing on one leg increased from 8.41 to 8.52 seconds among seven children, with six showing noticeable improvement. Additionally, the mean COP movement area decreased from 72.7㎠to 56.7㎠. Beyond numerical data, qualitative observations indicated behavioral and motor improvements. Some children began climbing the jungle gym independently and showed increased stability when hopping on one leg.
Discussion: We believe that the children developed self-regulation of COP sway with the use of weight bands. Additionally, the sessions with weight bands appeared to be beneficial for children with unstable balance.