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Updated: Jul 23, 2026
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Computerized Dynamic Posturography for Postural Control Assessment in Patients with Intermittent Claudication
Published on: December 11, 2013
Interaction between attention demanding motor and cognitive tasks and static postural stability.
D L Weeks1, R Forget, L Mouchnino
1Departmentof Physical Therapy, Regis University, Denver, CO 80221, USA. dweeks@regis.edu
Gerontology
|June 7, 2003
Summary
Performing cognitive tasks improved postural stability in older adults, while motor tasks worsened it. The ability to manage attention for balance was similar between young and elderly individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Postural stability often declines with age, necessitating research into contributing factors.
- Concurrent attention-demanding tasks may impact postural regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how motor and cognitive tasks affect center of pressure (COP) excursion during static balance in young and elderly adults using dual-task methodology.
Main Methods:
- Participants performed cognitive (arithmetic) and motor (finger-thumb pinch) tasks separately and simultaneously.
- Center of pressure (COP) excursion was measured during quiet standing and dual-task conditions with and without vision.
Main Results:
- Cognitive tasks reduced medio-lateral COP excursion, indicating central attentional influence on balance.
- Motor tasks increased COP excursion, suggesting reduced sway suppression when motor resources were engaged.
- Task performance was not affected by postural demands in either age group.
Conclusions:
- Young and elderly adults demonstrated similar abilities in sharing attentional resources between focal and postural tasks.
