[Quantified research of measuring postural balance by posturography using inclinometer technique in normal subjects]

To measure the normal values of a new type of posturography using inclinometer technique.

A total of 98 normal persons, including 48 males and 50 females, aged 20 - 59, were measured. The messages of postural average sway angular velocity and the angle of deflection were recorded by an inclined sensor fixed at the waist. Four tests were conducted in opening and closing eyes respectively: standing upright, walking forward, walking forward and backward repeatedly and walking at original site. The subjects were grouped by age and gender. Group A, aged 20-39, had 54 persons. Group B, aged 40-59, had 44 persons. The statistical significance was analyzed by T test.

The swaying extent in closing eyes was wider than that in opening eyes. The average sway angular velocities (degree/S, positive value: right and forward, negative value: left and backward) of male patients in the four tests in opening and closing eyes respectively were: 0.99, -0.35, 0.03, 0.02, 1.08, -0.36, 0.10, 0.02. Those of female patients were respectively: 1.04, -0.36, -0.01, 0.01, 1.22, -0.37, 0.04, 0.06. And those of patients in group A and B were respectively: 1.01, 0.41, -0.01, -0.01, 1.10, 0.26, -0.03, 0.03 and 1.02, -0.76, 0.03, 0.04, 1.20, -0.99, 0.17, 0.05. There was no statistical significance grouped by age and gender.

The normal reference values are provided here. There is no difference between males and females. It may be applicable in all subjects of 20 - 59 yr. This instrument can quantify the results of walking test so as to evaluate the balance function of vestibo-spinal system more accurately.