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Standing balance on inclined surfaces with different friction
Ingrid Svensson1, Chuansi Gao2, Amitava Halder2
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Lund University, Sweden.
Industrial Health
|March 6, 2018
Summary
Inclined surfaces and low friction increase slip risk during standing balance. Increased anterior-posterior torque indicates higher fall potential, especially on slippery, sloped surfaces.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Factors Engineering
- Ergonomics
Background:
- Work and daily activities frequently require standing on varied surfaces with different inclines and friction levels.
- Assessing standing balance under dynamic conditions is crucial for preventing slips and falls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the combined impact of surface inclination and friction on standing balance control.
- To evaluate the relationship between surface properties and the body's compensatory responses to perturbations.
Main Methods:
- Thirteen participants stood on surfaces with varying inclination and friction.
- Sudden, irregular external perturbations were applied to the calf muscles to assess balance responses.
- Measures included the standing utilised coefficient of friction (μSUCOF) and anterior-posterior torque.
Main Results:
- Standing utilised coefficient of friction (μSUCOF) increased on inclined surfaces for both high and low friction materials.
- Anterior-posterior torque increased more anteriorly on toes-down inclined surfaces and low-friction surfaces.
- Eyes-closed conditions heightened the observed effects on balance parameters.
Conclusions:
- Anterior-posterior torque is a sensitive indicator for evaluating standing balance and slip risk.
- Inclined surfaces, especially those with low friction, elevate the risk of slips and falls.
- Understanding these interactions is vital for designing safer environments and improving fall prevention strategies.
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