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Published on: October 31, 2011
Balance testing in saturation diving
S H Nordahl1, T Aasen, O I Molvaer
1Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Deep heliox diving significantly impairs postural control and vestibular function. These effects were measurable using computerized stabilometry and resolved after surfacing, indicating diving
Area of Science:
- Hyperbaric physiology
- Neuroscience
- Human physiology
Background:
- Limited research exists on hyperbaric exposure's effects on balance and the vestibular system.
- Deep heliox diving presents unique physiological challenges.
- Understanding these impacts is crucial for diver safety and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of deep heliox diving on postural control.
- To assess changes in vestibular system function following saturation diving.
- To evaluate the efficacy of computerized stabilometry in monitoring these changes.
Main Methods:
- Four divers underwent a 32-day experimental saturation heliox dive.
- Postural control was measured using a static balance platform at various depths (up to 470 msw).
- Vestibular function was assessed via otoneurological examination and electronystagmography (ENG) before and after the dive.
Main Results:
- Postural control significantly decreased from approximately 200 msw, with increased body sway.
- Vestibular caloric responses were reduced immediately post-dive.
- All measured parameters returned to pre-dive levels after surfacing.
Conclusions:
- Deep heliox diving demonstrably affects both postural control and vestibular function.
- Computerized stabilometry, particularly center of pressure (COP) path length, is a sensitive tool for monitoring divers.
- These findings highlight the physiological impact of extreme diving environments.
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