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Experimental Methods to Study Human Postural Control
Published on: September 11, 2019
White matter hyperintensities and dynamics of postural control
Vera Novak1, Mareile Haertle, Peng Zhao
1Division of Gerontology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA. vnovak@bidmc.harvard.edu
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
|March 3, 2009
Summary
White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) impact balance control in older adults. These brain changes affect postural sway dynamics, potentially leading to future mobility issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gerontology
- Biomedical Imaging
Background:
- White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are linked to aging, cardiovascular issues, and falls in the elderly.
- This study investigates WMHs and postural control dynamics in older adults without a history of falls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and dynamic postural control in older adults.
- To determine if WMHs affect balance measures in individuals without prior falls.
Main Methods:
- 76 community-dwelling older adults (mean age 64.5 years) without falls history were studied.
- Brain MRI (FLAIR, MP-RAGE) was used for WMH volume calculation. Postural control was assessed via force platform (stabilogram-diffusion analysis).
- Gait speed was measured using a 12-minute walk test.
Main Results:
- Age-adjusted periventricular and focal WMHs correlated with altered dynamic balance measures.
- Reduced anteroposterior postural sway range and increased mediolateral sway irregularity were observed with WMHs.
- WMHs did not significantly affect normal walking speed.
Conclusions:
- Periventricular and focal white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) influence long-term postural control dynamics.
- These WMH-related balance changes may involve feedback mechanisms and contribute to age-related mobility decline.
