Abstract des Autors

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy in determining centre of pressure when using a force platform for stabilometry research. Design: Technical report. Background: Previous studies have determined the accuracy of locating the centre of pressure by applying force through a single point. In human stabilometry research however, force is distributed across two feet and the centre of pressure located between the feet. Methods: Forces were applied to a Kistler force platform using a force applied through a single point as well as when force was distributed between two metal blocks. Results: Errors in calculating centre of pressure were substantially larger when force was applied through a single point than when the force was distributed between two blocks. Conclusions: Evaluating centre of pressure accuracy by applying force through a single point overestimates the errors inherent in human stabilometry research. Relevance: Evaluating changes in the centre of pressure of human subjects standing on a platform is a common tool for evaluating control mechanisms of balance. Accurate information regarding the centre of pressure is essential for the validity of this research. Verf.-Referat