Role of Somatosensory Input in the Control of Human Posture

Authors

Guy G. Simoneau, Marquette UniversityFollow
Jan S. Ulbrecht, Pennsylvania State University - Main CampusFollow
Janice A. Derr, Pennsylvania State University - Main Campus
Peter R. Cavanagh, Pennsylvania State University - Main CampusFollow

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

8 p.

Publication Date

9-1995

Publisher

Elsevier

Source Publication

Gait and Posture

Source ISSN

0966-6362

Original Item ID

doi: 10.1016/0966-6362(95)99061-O

Abstract

In this study we investigated the effects of somatosensory deficits on the control of balance during quiet stance using subjects with demonstrated loss of sensation to touch, joint movement perception, proprioception, and other somatosensory stimuli secondary to diabetic neuropathy. The results indicate that somatosensory deficits resulting from diabetic neuropathy lead to a marked decrease in the ability to maintain a stable stance position. Furthermore, this study clearly demonstrates that somatosensory function is at least as important as vision in the control of posture during quiet stance, and that the visual and vestibular systems cannot fully compensate for diminished somatosensory input.

Comments

Gait and Posture, Vol. 3, No. 3 (September, 1995): 115–122. DOI.

Recommended Citation

Simoneau, Guy G.; Ulbrecht, Jan S.; Derr, Janice A.; and Cavanagh, Peter R., "Role of Somatosensory Input in the Control of Human Posture" (1995). Physical Therapy Faculty Research and Publications. 42.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/phys_therapy_fac/42