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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
14:52
Computerized Dynamic Posturography for Postural Control Assessment in Patients with Intermittent Claudication
Published on: December 11, 2013
Postural changes may influence popliteal atherosclerosis by modifying local circumferential wall tension
Tiago Gemignani1, José R Matos-Souza, Otávio R Coelho
1Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.
Summary
Body posture changes impact blood pressure and wall tension in leg arteries. Orthostatic circumferential wall tension (CWT) is a stronger predictor of intima-media thickness (IMT) in popliteal arteries, suggesting posture may influence atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Vascular Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Peripheral artery atherosclerosis commonly affects lower limbs, implicating local hemodynamic factors.
- Understanding the influence of body posture on arterial hemodynamics is crucial for assessing atherosclerosis risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of postural changes (supine to orthostatic) on carotid and popliteal hemodynamics.
- To examine the relationship between hemodynamic parameters (blood pressure, circumferential wall tension (CWT), arterial strain) and intima-media thickness (IMT).
Main Methods:
- 117 healthy subjects underwent blood pressure measurements in supine and orthostatic positions.
- Echo-Doppler analysis assessed common carotid and popliteal arteries.
- Circumferential wall tension (CWT) calculated using Laplace's law; intima-media thickness (IMT) measured.
Main Results:
- Orthostatic posture increased blood pressure and CWT in popliteal arteries, but not carotid arteries.
- No significant relationship found between IMT and local blood pressure or arterial strain.
- Orthostatic CWT showed a stronger correlation with popliteal IMT compared to supine CWT.
Conclusions:
- Orthostatic circumferential wall tension (CWT) is a significant hemodynamic predictor of popliteal intima-media thickness (IMT).
- Erect postures may increase the hemodynamic burden, potentially acting as a risk factor for popliteal atherosclerosis.
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