Coexistence of stability and mobility in postural control: evidence from postural compensation for respiration

Abstract

This study evaluated the extent to which movement of the lower limbs and pelvis may compensate for the disturbance to posture that results from respiratory movement of the thorax and abdomen. Motion of the neck, pelvis, leg and centre of pressure (COP) were recorded with high resolution in conjunction with electromyographic activity (EMG) of flexor and extensor muscles of the trunk and hip. Respiration was measured from ribcage motion. Subjects breathed quietly, and with increased volume due to hypercapnoea (as a result of breathing with increased dead-space) and a voluntary increase in respiration. Additional recordings were made during apnoea. The relationship between respiration and other parameters was measured from the correlation between data in the frequency domain (i.e. coherence) and from time-locked averages triggered from respiration. In quiet standing, small angular displacements ( approximately 0.5 degrees ) of the trunk and leg were identified in raw data. Correspondingly, there were peaks in the power spectra of the angular movements and EMG. While body movement and EMG were coherent with respiration (>0.5), the coherence between respiration and COP displacement was low (<0.2). The amplitude of movement and coherence was increased when respiration was increased. The present data suggest that the postural disturbance that results from respiratory movement is matched, at least partly, and counteracted by small angular displacements of the lower trunk and lower limbs. Thus, stability in quiet stance is dependent on movement of multiple body segments and control of equilibrium cannot be reduced to control of a single joint.

Exercise and physical therapy help restore body and self in clients with severe anorexia nervosa

“…In line with the understanding that the body is functionally integrated (Bunkan, 2001) and the notion that the function and efficiency of breathing is connected with postural stability and balance (Chaitow et al, 2014;Hodges et al, 2002), the findings vividly illustrate that divergence in one bodily function or structure engenders changes in others. For instance, a restricted breathing pattern combined with upper-chest breathing, as observed in all participants, frequently seems to be accompanied by an over-activation of respiratory muscles.…”

“…This observation is significant, as it relates to movements of the whole body, both in the upward and downward direction. To improve functionality associated with the torso and pelvis, as well as the recuperation of weak and undernourished muscles in these areas, it is important to focus on the strengthening of muscles associated with the stability of the spine, as these are considered essential for maintaining an upright and stable position (Hodges et al, 2002). The strengthening of muscles of the lower limbs can to some extent be implemented during the previously discussed posture and balance exercises.…”

The Effect of Cervical Spine Manipulation on Postural Sway in Patients With Nonspecific Neck Pain

“…Working in conjunction with these systems, several postural reflexes also play a role in maintaining equilibrium of the head, neck and body Morningstar et al, 2005;Treleaven, 2008b). The integrity of the postural control system is essential in order for the central nervous system to generate appropriate motor responses to destabilising forces such as gravity, voluntary limb movement, and respiration Hodges, Gurfinkel, Brumagne, Smith, & Cordo, 2002).…”

Postural Mismatch in Musculoskeletal Disorders

“…The advantage with this multisegmental construction allows the equilibrium to maintain in many different positions, also when moving [21].This amount of information processing is a challenge for the brain. It is therefore easy to comprehend the fact that some people suffer from balance disorders.…”