Comparison of Y-Balance Test Scores With & Without Visual Feedback Training

Publication Date

Spring 2026

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Melissa Naegele

Second Advisor

David Diers

Third Advisor

Renee Theiss

Abstract

Background and Purpose: 

The Y-Balance Test (YBT) is used to assess dynamic balance and neuromuscular control. The use of visual feedback has been found to improve motor control and enhance learning during exercise. However, there is limited research on the effect of visual feedback on dynamic balance during single-leg squat practice. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of visual feedback during single-leg squat training and knee excursion on YBT performance within a healthy adult population.

Methods:

23 healthy adults recruited from the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Governors State University were included in the study, ages 21-39. All participants complete a pre-screening, in addition to a health and demographic survey, to assess participants' physical and sensory capabilities. Participants were randomly assigned to a control group or an experimental group. The control group performed single-leg squats for one minute in each of the directions of the Y-Balance Test with no visual feedback. The experimental group performed single-leg squats for one minute in each of the directions of the Y-Balance Test with visual feedback. All participants completed two trials of the YBT, pre- and post-interventions. Composite scores for maximum reach distance in relation to leg length and paired t-tests to compare pre- and post-interventions were calculated for the control and experimental groups.

Results:

The composite scores for both groups following single-leg squat interventions showed improvements in YBT scores; however, the paired t-tests revealed no statistically significant pre-post difference in either group.

Conclusion:

Visual feedback during single-leg squats did not significantly improve Y-Balance Test scores in healthy adults. Further research over time with multiple training sessions and a larger sample size is needed to determine the effect of visual feedback on dynamic balance.

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