Multi-joint coordination in standing balance

N/A

Adapatation to stabilizing externally applied force fields reduces postural responses at the ankle and hip

The primary and secondaire measures are calculated after the measurements have been performed. The available data for the calculation (leg and trunk movement and ankle and hip torques) are measured during the two hour trial, continously

To study multi-joint coordination, balance disturbances are externally applied by pushing and pulling at the hips and shoulders. The disturbances contain multiple frequencies ranging from 0.05-5Hz, making the disturbance unpredictable. The disturbances are submaximal, challenging the balance control system, but not intended to make subjects step or fall. In addition, to study adaptation of the ankle and hip strategy, external whole-body force fields are applied, by altering the dynamics of the device and thereby manipulating ankle and hip strategy.