Evaluation of posture signal using entropy analysis and fractal dimension in adults with Down syndrome

The aim of this study was to explore new techniques in analysing postural control using nonlinear time-series analysis and to relate these results with the clinical knowledge on the postural system in Down syndrome (DS) subjects. In order to achieve the goal, we analysed the time domain and the frequency domain behaviour, the fractal dimension and the entropy of the centre of pressure signal in both directions during quiet standing in 35 participants with DS, comparing the results with a control population. DS patients evidenced a lack in postural control in anterior-posterior direction due to the impairment both in the high organisation and synergies and in the impairments due to ligament laxity and hypotonia. Maintaining posture is a task achieved by the integration of visual, vestibular and somatosensory receptors and the dynamical nature of this signal gives fundamental data about the lack of postural control in specific pathological condition.