THE ROLE OF PERIPHERAL VISION IN ENHANCING BALANCE AND POSTURAL STABILITY: INSIGHTS FROM CENTRAL VISION OBSTRUCTION.

This study examines the role of peripheral vision in maintaining postural stability, particularly when central vision is obstructed, using Sensory Organization Testing (SOT) with computer dynamic posturography. Ten participants (5 males, 5 females, aged 21-34 years) were tested under three conditions: full vision, full occlusion, and central vision obstruction allowing only peripheral vision access. Results revealed significantly better balance performance in the peripheral vision condition during somatosensory perturbations (Condition 4), with equilibrium scores higher than in the full vision condition (p = 0.02). Similarly, visual preference (VIS) scores, indicating reliance on visual input, were significantly elevated under peripheral vision conditions (p = 0.03). These findings highlight peripheral vision's critical role in improving postural sway and maintaining balance when central vision is impaired, as seen in conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While central vision is vital for daily tasks requiring focused attention, peripheral vision provides crucial environmental cues for balance and stability. This research underscores the need for targeted interventions and balance training programs to mitigate fall risks in individuals with central vision loss. Future studies will explore these effects in populations with visual impairments to enhance clinical relevance and applicability of central vision on balance.