%0 Journal Article
%T Postural control and detection of slip/fall initiation in the elderly population
%J Ergonomics
%D 2005
%A Kim, Byoung J.
%A Robinson, Charles J.
%V 48
%N 9
%P 1065-1085
%X One of the common causes of morbidity and mortality in workplaces is related to slips or falls. Reaction to external disturbances, such as slips or falls, requires a process of perturbation detection and control of motion changes. Postural control is a common mechanism to compensate unexpected displacements of the body. The ability of postural control diminishes with ageing or neuropathy. In this study, two controlled groups, diabetics and non-diabetics in the elderly population, were investigated to compare how different postural control mechanisms would relate to the detection of perturbation and regain of balance. The ultra-low-vibration Sliding Linear Investigative Platform for Analyzing Lower Limb Stability SYSTEM was used to measure the biomechanical changes of posture and perturbation detection. In phase 1 of the analysis, static measures during quiet standing were considered to investigate the relationship between postural stability and perturbation detection capability. In phase 2 of the analysis, dynamic measures during an occurrence of perturbation were analysed. Statistical tests and linear logistic regression models were applied to find differences of postural control mechanisms and to build a predictive model for perturbation detection quantitatively. It is anticipated that the results of this study will contribute to more comprehensive understanding of postural control mechanisms and design of slip/fall prevention programmes.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>
%G en
%I Informa - Taylor and Francis Group
%@ 0014-0139
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00140130500071028