Posturography

A method to assess balance and postural control

Posturography is a technique used to quantify postural control in upright stance in either static or dynamic conditions. It is commonly used in clinical settings to assess balance disorders and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for such conditions.

Overview

Posturography involves the use of a force platform to measure the forces exerted by the feet on the ground. These measurements are used to calculate the center of pressure (COP), which provides information about the body's sway and balance.

Types of Posturography

There are several types of posturography, each with its own specific applications and methodologies.

Static Posturography

Static posturography measures the body's sway while the subject stands still on a platform. It is used to assess the ability to maintain balance without any external perturbations.

Dynamic Posturography

Dynamic posturography involves assessing balance while the subject is subjected to controlled movements or perturbations. This can include moving the platform or providing visual or auditory stimuli.

Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)

Diagram of an Equitest system used in computerized dynamic posturography

CDP is a sophisticated form of dynamic posturography that uses a computerized system to control the platform and stimuli. The Equitest system is a common example of CDP equipment.

Applications

Posturography is used in various clinical and research settings to assess balance and postural control. It is particularly useful in diagnosing and managing conditions such as:

• Vestibular disorders
• Neurological disorders
• Musculoskeletal disorders

Sensory Analysis

Sensory analysis using the Equitest system

Posturography can also be used to perform sensory analysis, which evaluates how different sensory inputs (visual, vestibular, and somatosensory) contribute to balance. This is often done using the Equitest system, which can isolate and test each sensory component.

Related pages

• Balance disorder
• Vestibular system
• Proprioception