Measuring postural sway in sitting: a new segmental approach.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanical analysis
• Pediatric posture and movement

Background:

• Traditional trunk sway measures overlook segmental contributions.
• Understanding pediatric postural control requires a multisegment approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify seated trunk sway in typically developing children using a multisegment analysis.
• To investigate age-related differences in trunk sway and pelvic stability.

Main Methods:

• Stereophotogrammetry used to measure posture and sway in 20 children (divided by age <10 and ≥10 years).
• Participants sat unsupported for 30 seconds.
• Analysis focused on anteroposterior and mediolateral sway of trunk segments and pelvis.

Main Results:

• Both age groups exhibited a tendency for backward pelvic tilt and kyphotic trunk posture.
• Younger children showed greater variability in sitting posture.
• Reduced sway amplitude and velocity with increasing age were observed for all segments.
• Mediolateral sway and intersegmental angular sway demonstrated a clearer age dependency.
• Sagittal plane pelvic stability was identified as a key factor in age-related sway differences.

Conclusions:

• Trunk postural control is similar between younger and older children.
• Increased sway in younger children is linked to less stable pelvic control.
• A multisegment approach reveals age-dependent changes in pediatric seated postural control.