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Shifting of the body center of gravity in low-risk preterm infants: A video-pedoscope study

Natascia Bertoncelli1, Laura Lucaccioni1, Luca Ori1

  • 1Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy.

Early Human Development
|August 22, 2018
PubMed

Insights

The center of gravity (COG) shifting in preterm infants shows developmental changes, moving from head to bottom with age. This indicates maturing postural control and a more stable body position in infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal development
  • Infant biomechanics
  • Postural control research

Background:

  • Understanding the developmental trajectory of postural control in preterm infants is crucial for identifying potential developmental delays.
  • The center of gravity (COG) shifting patterns provide insights into the maturation of motor skills and balance in early life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the developmental course of center of gravity (COG) shifting in healthy preterm infants from early preterm to term age.
  • To assess changes in COG position, amplitude, and frequency of shifting as infants mature.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of eleven healthy preterm infants was studied using a computerized pedoscope and videorecorder.
  • Center of gravity (COG) shifting was analyzed for position, involved body parts, direction, and amplitude using specialized software and a semi-quantitative scale.
  • Infants were assessed in a supine position for 5-minute intervals at various developmental epochs.

Main Results:

  • A clear developmental progression in COG shifting was observed, with the COG position shifting from the head towards the bottom as infants aged.
  • The amplitude of COG shifting significantly decreased with increasing infant age.
  • No instances of lateral COG shifting were recorded during the study period.

Conclusions:

  • The observed developmental course of COG shifting in preterm infants suggests a maturation of their postural behavior.
  • The head-to-bottom displacement and reduced shifting amplitude indicate the development of a more stable body position as preterm infants approach term age.
Abstract

Keywords:
Center of gravityPedoscope analysisPreterm infant

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