Seated balance during pitch motion with and without visual input.

The study of seated balance and postural control, specifically in relation to wheelchair propulsion, has been an area of interest for quite some time. In biomedical and rehabilitation research this has led to the potential of treatment and prevention of spinal cord and musculoskeletal injuries. To date, little study has been done which analyzes the activity of lower trunk muscles for seated balance, as opposed to upper limb and shoulder muscles.

Arm movement effect on balance.

The background research shows a high incidence of falls and loss of balance related injuries, which cause serious consequences to individual health and quality of life, as well as substantial healthcare impact in services and costs. The literature review emphasizes that arm movements have a potentially significant effect on balance, and indentifies the use of balance boards as a relevant and meaningful tool for dynamic balance evaluation. The primary objective of this initial study was to develop a method to test and evaluate the effect of arm movements on the maintenance of postural stability.