Posturography

A method to assess balance and postural control

Posturography is a technique used to quantify postural control in upright stance in either static or dynamic conditions. It is commonly used in clinical settings to assess balance disorders and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for balance-related conditions.

Overview

Posturography involves the use of a force platform to measure the forces exerted by the feet on the ground. These measurements are used to calculate the center of pressure (COP), which reflects the body's sway and balance. The data collected can provide insights into the functioning of the vestibular system, proprioception, and visual system, all of which contribute to maintaining balance.

Types of Posturography

There are several types of posturography, each with its own applications and benefits:

Static Posturography

Static posturography measures the body's sway while the subject stands still on a platform. It is useful for assessing the baseline balance and postural stability of an individual. The subject may be asked to stand with eyes open or closed, or on different surfaces to challenge the balance system.

Dynamic Posturography

Dynamic posturography involves assessing balance while the platform or the environment is moving. This type of posturography can simulate real-life situations where balance is challenged, such as walking on uneven surfaces or during sudden movements. It is particularly useful for diagnosing balance disorders related to the vestibular system.

Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)

File:Posturography platform.jpg

A computerized dynamic posturography platform.

CDP is an advanced form of dynamic posturography that uses computer technology to control the platform and analyze the data. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the sensory and motor components of balance. CDP can help differentiate between sensory, motor, and central nervous system causes of balance disorders.

Clinical Applications

Posturography is used in various clinical settings, including:

• Diagnosis of Balance Disorders: It helps in diagnosing conditions such as Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
• Rehabilitation: Posturography can be used to monitor the progress of patients undergoing rehabilitation for balance disorders.
• Fall Risk Assessment: It is used to assess the risk of falls in elderly patients or those with neurological conditions.

Limitations

While posturography provides valuable information about balance, it has limitations. It does not directly measure the function of the vestibular, visual, or proprioceptive systems, but rather the integration of these systems in maintaining balance. Additionally, the results can be influenced by the subject's attention, fatigue, and cooperation during the test.

Related pages

• Vestibular system
• Balance disorder
• Proprioception
• Rehabilitation