Head Position and Posturography: A Novel Biomarker to Identify Concussion Sufferers

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomechanics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Postural control relies on complex systems to maintain balance against destabilizing forces.
• Computerized dynamic posturography, particularly the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Integration in Balance (mCTSIB), is a repeatable measure of postural stability.
• Standard mCTSIB protocols often use a neutral head position, potentially missing balance deficits related to head movements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if head positions off the neutral plane can serve as diagnostic biomarkers for Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS).
• To assess the impact of head turns on postural stability in PCS patients compared to healthy individuals.
• To explore the potential of head position testing in quantifying functional deficits and treatment outcomes in PCS.

Main Methods:

• Utilized computerized dynamic posturography to assess postural stability.
• Compared stability scores between a standardized neutral head position and statically maintained head turns.
• Evaluated participants with diagnosed Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) and a control group of healthy individuals.

Main Results:

• PCS subjects exhibited significantly lower postural stability scores with head turns compared to a neutral head position.
• Healthy controls did not show a significant difference in stability scores based on head position.
• Head position off the neutral plane appears to be a sensitive indicator of impaired postural control in PCS.

Conclusions:

• Statically maintained head turns reveal postural instabilities not detected by standard mCTSIB in PCS patients.
• Head position testing represents a novel, non-invasive biomarker for differentiating PCS individuals from healthy controls.
• This method offers a potential tool for objective assessment of functional deficits and treatment efficacy in PCS management.