Real-time stability measurement system for postural control

• Main Authors: Senanayake, S.M.N., Kiong, L.C., Gouwanda, D.
• Format: Article
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: T Technology (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/5189/; http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1360859210001488
• Institution: Universiti Malaya

A method for assessing balance, which was sensitive to changes in the postural control system is presented. This paper describes the implementation of a force-sensing platform, with force sensing resistors as the sensing element. The platform is capable of measuring destabilized postural perturbations in dynamic and static postural conditions. Besides providing real-time qualitative assessment, the platform quantifies the postural control of the subjects. This is done by evaluating the weighted center of applied pressure distribution over time. The objective of this research was to establish the feasibility of using the force-sensing platform to test and gauge the postural control of individuals. Tests were conducted in Eye Open and Eye Close states on Flat Ground (static condition) and the balance trainer (dynamic condition). It was observed that the designed platform was able to gauge the sway experienced by the body when subject�s states and conditions changed.