1. Postural Control Chapter 20 KINE 3301 Biomechanics of Human Movement

2. The vestibular system measures linear and angular accelerations of the head. The brain must evaluate visual, vestibular & somatosensory data to determine the accuracy of each and select an appropriate response to a postural challenge.

3. NeuroCom Sensory Organization Test (SOT)

4. Sensory Organizational Theory The brain gathers somatosensory, vestibular & vision data to determine body orientation and equilibrium. The brain then evaluates available data to resolve an conflicting information and select an appropriate response. Somatosensory & vision are more sensitive to postural challenges then vestibular, but they are more likely to inaccurate or misleading information.

5. Reflex Latency of Postural Control Signals SensorReflex Latency Muscle Spindle30 – 50 ms Golgi Tendon Organ50 – 80 ms Cutaneous Sensors50 – 80 ms Joint Pressure Sensors50 – 80 ms Vestibular Sensors40 – 80 ms

6. Postural Control & Fall Risk in the Elderly Muscular strength & vision decline with aging. Flexibility also declines which adversely affects corrective responses. Bone mineral density and bone strength also decline with aging. Due to osteoporosis & osteoarthritis elderly individuals can not tolerate “high intensity” training. Medications may also increase fall risk.