Postural Control

Chapter 20

KINE 3301Biomechanics of Human Movement

The vestibular system measures linear and angular accelerations of the head.

The brain must evaluate visual, vestibular & somatosensory data to determine the accuracy of each and select an appropriate response to a postural challenge.

NeuroCom

Sensory Organization Test (SOT)

Sensory Organizational Theory

• The brain gathers somatosensory, vestibular & vision data to determine body orientation and equilibrium.

• The brain then evaluates available data to resolve an conflicting information and select an appropriate response.

• Somatosensory & vision are more sensitive to postural challenges then vestibular, but they are more likely to inaccurate or misleading information.

Reflex Latency of Postural Control Signals

Sensor Reflex LatencyMuscle Spindle 30 – 50 msGolgi Tendon Organ 50 – 80 msCutaneous Sensors 50 – 80 msJoint Pressure Sensors 50 – 80 msVestibular Sensors 40 – 80 ms

Postural Control & Fall Risk in the Elderly

• Muscular strength & vision decline with aging.• Flexibility also declines which adversely affects

corrective responses.• Bone mineral density and bone strength also

decline with aging.• Due to osteoporosis & osteoarthritis elderly

individuals can not tolerate “high intensity” training.

• Medications may also increase fall risk.