Balance and Postural Control Lecture Notes

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to balance and postural control, including definitions and risks associated with falls.

Balance

The process by which the body’s position is maintained in equilibrium.

Postural Control

Controlling the body’s position in space for stability and orientation.

Center of Mass (COM)

A point that represents the center of the total body mass.

Base of Support (BOS)

The perimeter of the contact area between the body and the support surface.

Center of Gravity (COG)

The vertical projection of the center of mass to the ground.

Center of Pressure (COP)

The center of the distribution of total forces applied to the supporting surface.

Limits of Stability (LOS)

The sway boundaries in which an individual can maintain equilibrium without changing the base of support.

Reactive Postural Control

The ability to respond to external forces acting on the body.

Anticipatory Postural Adjustments (APAs)

Postural adjustments for voluntary movement that occur before an expected perturbation.

Compensatory Postural Adjustments (CPAs)

Postural adjustments in response to external disturbances to restore balance.

Intrinsic Fall Risk Factors

Factors such as history of falls, sensory loss, and chronic health conditions that contribute to the risk of falling.

Extrinsic Fall Risk Factors

Environmental factors such as poor lighting, unstable furniture, and obstacles that increase the risk of falls.

Fear of Falling (FoF)

A common concern among older adults that can lead to decreased activity and increased risk of falls.

Posturography

A test that measures postural sway and balance through sensory organization.

Polypharmacy

The use of four or more medications, which increases the risk of falls, particularly in the elderly.

Vitamin D

A nutrient associated with muscle strength and balance, where lower levels have been linked to an increased fall risk.

Berg Balance Scale

A clinical tool used to assess balance and risk of falls, particularly in elderly populations.