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Human postural reflexes and gravity--an under water simulation.

V Dietz1, G A Horstmann, M Trippel

  • 1Department of Clinical Neurology and Neurophysiology University of Freiburg, F.R.G.

Neuroscience Letters
|December 4, 1989
PubMed
Summary
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This study explored how gravity affects balance control. Underwater experiments revealed a linear link between body weight and muscle responses, suggesting pressure receptors aid postural stability.

Area of Science:

  • Biomechanics
  • Human Physiology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Postural adjustments are crucial for maintaining balance.
  • The role of gravity in modulating these adjustments is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of altered gravity on human postural control.
  • To identify the sensory mechanisms underlying these gravity-dependent postural responses.

Main Methods:

  • Subjects stood on a movable platform underwater, with buoyancy manipulated using lead vests.
  • Displacements were applied, and biomechanical signals, including electromyographic (EMG) responses, were recorded.
  • Experiments were also conducted with subjects loaded out of water for comparison.

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Main Results:

  • An approximately linear relationship was observed between body weight and EMG response amplitudes in leg and thigh muscles when underwater.
  • Response amplitude saturated when subjects were loaded out of water.
  • Vestibulospinal and muscle proprioceptive reflexes could not explain the underwater findings.

Conclusions:

  • The observed EMG responses underwater are likely mediated by reflexes activated by pressure receptors.
  • These reflexes appear to be critical for maintaining the center of gravity over the feet under altered gravitational conditions.