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The dynamics of standing balance.
Ramesh Balasubramaniam1, Alan M. Wing
1Sensory Motor Neuroscience Group, Behavioural Brain Sciences Centre, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Edgbaston, UK
Trends in Cognitive Sciences
|December 12, 2002
Summary
Maintaining upright stance is complex, involving whole-body muscle action against destabilizing forces. This review explores how the central nervous system manages posture using sensory information, attention, and cognitive processes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
- Motor Control
Background:
- Upright stance is a complex motor task requiring continuous muscle adjustments.
- Gravity and external/internal forces constantly challenge postural stability.
- The central nervous system must coordinate multi-segmental actions to maintain balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the control of upright stance.
- To examine the impact of predictable and unpredictable perturbations on posture.
- To elucidate the role of sensory information, attention, and cognition in maintaining balance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on postural control.
- Analysis of studies investigating responses to external disturbances.
- Examination of the influence of cognitive factors on stance.
Main Results:
- The central nervous system employs sophisticated strategies to counteract postural disturbances.
- Perceptual information, attention, and cognitive processes significantly modulate postural responses.
- Responses to predictable and unpredictable perturbations differ, highlighting adaptive mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Effective upright stance relies on integrated sensory, attentional, and cognitive mechanisms.
- Understanding these processes is crucial for addressing balance disorders.
- Future research should further explore the interplay between cognition and motor control in posture.