Which of the following is NOT a typical change in support strategy?

• A. Stepping to correct balance
• B. Grasping for additional support
• C. Shifting weight without stepping
• D. Closing eyes

Answer: (D)

The main idea is how postural control uses motor strategies to keep the center of mass over the base of support. When balance is challenged, typical motor responses include stepping to reestablish a new base of support, grasping for external support to prevent a fall, or shifting weight through small ankle and hip motions without moving the feet. These are direct adjustments to how the body uses its support and contact with the environment to regain stability.

Closing the eyes, on the other hand, alters sensory input (vision) and is used to test how well a person can maintain balance with reduced visual information. It’s not a mechanical change in how the body uses the base of support, but a sensory challenge that reveals dependency on vision and how well proprioceptive and vestibular systems compensate. Because it does not constitute a change in the actual support strategy, it’s not considered a typical motor strategy for maintaining stance.