Normative based clinical tool for objective evaluation of postural responses

The paper presents a novel normative based method and apparatus for objective assessment of postural responses during unexpected perturbation in clinical environment. A modified standing frame (based on BalanceTrainertrade) for standing-balance training in a fall-safe balancing environment equipped with electrical actuators to provide unexpected perturbations in eight directions during quiet standing was used. Ground reaction forces were recorded under both feet and center of pressure was calculated to derive postural response indicators. The set-up normative was based on consistent patterns assessed in seven neurologically intact volunteers. In clinical investigation the postural responses in two incomplete spinal cord injured persons and hemiparetic stroke patient were contrasted to the normative response. Thus the characteristic direction dependent deficiencies were identified and numerically evaluated. On the basis of our findings we may suggest that the method may become effective when substantial direction dependent quantitative evaluation of postural responses are required in clinical & home environment