Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability

Lulu Yin; Zhangqi Lai; Xiaoyue Hu; Kun Liu; Lin Wang

doi:10.3791/61592

Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ank...

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Neuroscience

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JoVE Journal Neuroscience

Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability

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07:52 min

September 18, 2020

DOI: 10.3791/61592-v

Lulu Yin¹, Zhangqi Lai², Xiaoyue Hu², Kun Liu³, Lin Wang²

¹Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine,Tongji University, ²School of Kinesiology,Shanghai University of Sport, ³Department of Rehabilitation Medicine,Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital

Overview

This study evaluates the coordination of visual, somatosensory, and vestibular systems alongside muscle activation using computerized dynamic posturography and surface electromyography in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). The method investigates postural stability and could potentially extend to other neurologic and musculoskeletal disorders.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Neuromuscular Control
Postural Stability
Chronic Ankle Instability

Background

Chronic ankle instability leads to postural control deficiencies.
Delayed muscle activation can affect stability.
This study uses advanced techniques to analyze these issues.

Purpose of Study

To evaluate sensory system coordination and muscle activation for maintaining stability in individuals with CAI.
To develop a comprehensive method for assessing postural stability.
To explore potential applications in other conditions affecting stability.

Methods Used

Computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) and surface electromyography (EMG) were used.
The study involved participants with chronic ankle instability.
Key tests included sensory organization, motor control, and unilateral stance tests.
Calibration and setup of the CDP and EMG systems were detailed.
Data was processed with specific filters and parameters for analysis.

Main Results

Participants exhibited varying levels of stability and reaction times when compared to normative data.
Coordination of sensory systems was assessed, with reliance on the ankle strategy for maintaining stability.
Some abnormal responses were noted, indicating unilateral orthopedic issues.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the neuromuscular control mechanisms in CAI.
The methods could be adapted to investigate other disorders affecting postural stability.
Findings emphasize the importance of coordination among sensory systems for balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What advantages does computerized dynamic posturography offer?

CDP allows for precise analysis of postural stability and sensory coordination in various conditions, including CAI.

How is the main biological model implemented?

Participants with chronic ankle instability undergo a series of balance and coordination tests using CDP and EMG systems.

What types of data or outcomes are obtained?

Data related to muscle activation, reaction times, and sensory system coordination are measured and analyzed.

How can the method be applied to other conditions?

The approach can be adapted to study postural stability in various neurologic or musculoskeletal disorders.

What are the key limitations of this study?

Results may vary based on participant demographics and the specific parameters set during testing.

What types of tests are performed during the study?

Key tests include the sensory organization test, motor control test, and limits of stability assessments.

Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) exhibit postural control deficiency and delayed muscle activation of lower extremities. Computerized dynamic posturography combined with surface electromyography provides insights into the coordination of the visual, somatosensory, and vestibular systems with muscle activation regulation to maintain postural stability in individuals with CAI.

This protocol presents a novel approach for evaluating the coordination of the visual somata sensory and vestibular systems, and related muscle activation required to maintain postural stability. This technique can be used to perform a comprehensive investigation of the neuromuscular control for chronic ankle instability through the combination of computerized dynamic posturography, and related muscle activity. This method could also be used to explore postural stability and related muscle activity in other conditions such as neurologic or musculoskeletal system disorders.

Before beginning an analysis, turn on the CDP system and complete a self-calibration to confirm that the instrument is operating at a 100 Hertz sampling frequency. In the software, double-click Balance Manager System, Clinical Module, and New Patient. Input the participant name, height, ID, weight, and age, and select Assessment, Sensory Organization Test, Motor Control Test, Adaption Test, Limits of Stability, and Unilateral Stance.

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