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Updated: May 5, 2026
08:12
Experimental Methods to Study Human Postural Control
Published on: September 11, 2019
9.1K
Support surface related changes in feedforward and feedback control of standing posture
Sambit Mohapatra1, Komal K Kukkar1, Alexander S Aruin1
1University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States.
Summary
Different support surfaces significantly impact postural control. Foam surfaces enhance feedforward muscle activity, crucial for balance in rehabilitation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Motor Control
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Postural control is essential for maintaining balance.
- Understanding how support surfaces affect postural adjustments is vital for rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of varying support surfaces on the feedforward and feedback mechanisms of postural control.
- To analyze muscle activation patterns and center of pressure (CoP) displacements under different support conditions.
Main Methods:
- Nine healthy subjects stood on rigid, foam, and wobble board surfaces with eyes open/closed.
- External shoulder perturbations were applied.
- Electromyography of trunk/leg muscles and CoP displacement were recorded and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Feedforward postural control showed earlier and greater anterior muscle activation on foam surfaces.
- Feedback control consistently activated anterior muscles before posterior muscles, with peak activity on foam.
- Maximum CoP displacement was observed on the rigid surface.
Conclusions:
- Support surface characteristics significantly modulate both feedforward and feedback postural control mechanisms.
- Findings have implications for designing balance-focused rehabilitation interventions.
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