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Sit-to-stand-and-walk from 120% Knee Height: A Novel Approach to Assess Dynamic Postural Control Independent of Lead-limb
Published on: August 30, 2016
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Adaptation of Postural Stability following Stroke.
1a Professor and Director of Graduate Studies, Program in Physical Therapy Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation University of Minnesota Minneapolis , Minnesota.
Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation
|September 14, 2016
Summary
Stroke survivors often struggle with balance due to impaired postural adjustments. This study identifies two key deficits affecting balance control, suggesting tailored rehabilitation for reactive and anticipatory postural adjustments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Activities of daily living depend on anticipatory and reactive postural adjustments.
- Stroke significantly impacts these balance behaviors, leading to postural instability.
- Understanding these deficits is crucial for effective rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of stroke on anticipatory and reactive balance behaviors.
- To identify the primary deficits underlying postural instability post-stroke.
- To explore the neural mechanisms controlling different types of postural adjustments.
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed postural adjustments in individuals following stroke.
- Deficits in muscle recruitment and limb stabilization were assessed.
- The impact of prior knowledge on postural responses was evaluated.
Main Results:
- Two main deficits were identified: loss of postural muscle recruitment and lack of paretic limb stabilization.
- These deficits may stem from disrupted geocentric and egocentric references.
- Prior knowledge improved reactive adjustments but not voluntary motion stabilization.
Conclusions:
- Post-stroke postural instability is linked to specific neuromuscular deficits.
- Deficits in sequencing and timing of stabilizing responses are resistant to adaptation.
- Reactive and anticipatory postural adjustments involve distinct neural mechanisms requiring separate rehabilitation approaches.

