Balance training exercises and postural control in overweight and obese children: A systematic review

Background: Childhood Obesity causes potential changes in sensory input and disrupts postural control and stability. Implementing balance exercises has been shown to improve postural impairment, enhance motor task development, and reduce the risk of injury in this population. Objective: The aim of this study is to discover balance exercises to enhance postural control in overweight and obese children. Design: Systematic literature review. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across five electronic databases to find randomized controlled/ randomized controlled clinical/Quasi-experimental studies pertaining to balance control exercises and childhood obesity. Each reviewer used the PEDro scale to independently assess the data that was retrieved from studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria. A risk-of-bias assessment was also conducted. Results: After fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 4 articles were assimilated in the systematic review. Two independent authors verified and screened data, third author double-checked and searched for additional articles. The PEDro scale rated the studies as moderate to good (scores >6), with minimal bias. Key biases stemmed from the lack of blinding and concealment. Conclusion: There is strong evidence suggesting that balance exercise not only enhance stability but also address the difficulties associated with excess body weight. Thus, the integration of balance exercises in the regimen of overweight and obese children proves effective in advancing postural control.