Date of Award

2002

Publication Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

M.H.K.

Department

Kinesiology

Keywords

Applied Mechanics.

Supervisor

Potvin, James R.,

Rights

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Abstract

Stability of the spine is an integral factor in determining the whole-body response to an induced perturbation, upon maintaining postural equilibrium. The purpose of this study was to examine whole-body and trunk postural control to sudden loading at the hands, with a special focus on the implications of loading to spinal stability. Seventeen females experienced the effects of load symmetry, both symmetrical and asymmetrical, in combination with expected and unexpected anticipation. The dependent variables were pre average, anticipatory, peak and time-to-peak responses from four trunk and three leg muscles bilaterally. Pre-activation of trunk and leg agonistic muscles served to reduce the overall postural disturbance caused by sudden loading. An increase in antagonistic co-activation was observed in both the anticipatory and reflex-mediated compensatory responses to the load perturbation. It is proposed that muscle stiffness and co-activation strategies affect both trunk and whole-body stability. The results provide insight into several common mechanisms involved in the dynamic stability of whole-body equilibrium and spinal stability. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2002 .H38. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 41-04, page: 1099. Adviser: James R. Potvin. Thesis (M.H.K.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2002.

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