Role of angular position of the seat in control of posture in response to external perturbation

• Published in: Experimental brain research 2022-02, Vol.240 (2), p.481-490
• Main Authors: Ademiluyi, Adeolu, Liang, Huaqing, Aruin, Alexander S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Balance; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Biomedicine; Electromyography; Humans; Leg; Legs; Muscle contraction; Muscle Contraction - physiology; Muscle, Skeletal - physiology; Neurology; Neurosciences; Physiological aspects; Postural Balance - physiology; Posture; Posture - physiology; Research Article; Sensory adaptation; Sitting position
• ISSN: 0014-4819; 1432-1106
• DOI: 10.1007/s00221-021-06270-x

Ability of the human body to regain balance after being externally perturbed is important in the maintenance of vertical posture. The goal of this study was to investigate trunk and leg muscle response to external perturbation while sitting on a stool with varying seat inclinations. Ten healthy subjects were required to receive a perturbation applied to the upper body while sitting on an adjustable stool with 0°, 10° forward or 10° backward inclination of the seat and without footrest and leg support. Electromyographic activities of the trunk and leg muscles and center of pressure displacements were recorded and analyzed during the anticipatory (APA) and compensatory (CPA) phases of postural control. APAs and CPAs were generated in response to an external perturbation. Delays in the onset of anticipatory muscle activity were seen when seated on the inclined seat compared to sitting on the horizontal seat ( p