Northampton Electronic Collection of Theses and Research

Effects of external loads on postural sway during quiet stance in adults aged 20–80 years

Hill, M.W., Duncan, M.J., Oxford, S.W., Kay, A. D. and Price, M.J. (2018) Effects of external loads on postural sway during quiet stance in adults aged 20–80 years. Applied Ergonomics. 66, pp. 64-69. 0003-6870.

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Information
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of holding external loads on postural sway during upright stance across age decades. Sixty-five healthy adults (females, n = 35), aged 18–80 years were assessed in four conditions; (1) standing without holding a load, holding a load corresponding to 5% body mass in the (2) left hand, (3) right hand and (4) both hands. The centre of pressure (COP) path length and anteroposterior and mediolateral COP displacement were used to indirectly assess postural sway. External loading elicited reductions in COP measures of postural sway in older age groups only (P < 0.05). No changes were observed in younger or intermediate aged adults (P > 0.05). Holding external loads during standing is relevant to many activities of daily living (i.e. holding groceries). The reduction in postural sway may suggest this type of loading has a stabilising effect during quiet standing among older adults.
Uncontrolled Keywords:
Age-related changes, External loads, Functional balance, Grocery bags, Postural stability
Creators:
Hill, M.W., Duncan, M.J., Oxford, S.W., Kay, A. D. and Price, M.J.
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:
Faculties > Faculty of Health & Society > Sports, Exercise & Life Sciences
Research Centres > Centre for Physical Activity and Life Sciences
Date:
1 January 2018
Date Type:
Publication
Page Range:
pp. 64-69
Journal or Publication Title:
Applied Ergonomics
Volume:
66
Number of Pages:
6
Language:
English
DOI:
10.1016/j.apergo.2017.08.007
ISSN:
0003-6870
Status:
Published / Disseminated
Refereed:
Yes
Related URLs:
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