POSTURAL CONTROL IN YOUNG AND ELDERLY NORMAL SUBJECTS AND IN PARKINSONIANS

Abstract

Balance is the ability to maintain the body's center of gravity over the base of support during quiet standing and movement. • The objective of this study is to quantify and comparing postural stability, balance control, and gait characteristics in normal young subjects, normal elderly subjects and Parkinsonian patients. • Material and Methods: The balanced and postural stability of 40 normal young subjects, 30 normal elderly subjects and 30 Parkinsonian patients were assessed and compared using the clinical balance scales (B. B.S., standing balance, Rivermead Mobility index) as well as computerized dynamic postero• graphy device. • Results: regarding elderly group: There is significant increase in sway of COG during quiet standing on different supporting surface, prolonged reaction time, impaired directional control, and decreased movement velocity. Significant increase in step width, and sway, tum time turn sway and decrease in step length and speed, significant prolongation of latency of all posture-evoked responses. • Regarding Parkinsonian group: Significant disturbance in limits of stability and rhythmic weight shift especially antero-posterior, significant decrease in step length, width, speed and increase in walk end sway, turn sway turn time. Significant increase in latency of all postural evoked responses. • Conclusion: Elderly persons are less stable and lose their balance easily compared to young. Similarly there are great changes in stability and balance in Parkinsonians compared to elderly persons.