Balance Flashcards
What key sensory inputs help to maintain balance?
Vestibular, proprioceptive and visual
What key areas of the CNS help to maintain balance?
Cerebellum, (vestibulocerebellum) and the VST’s. The reticular formation and the RST’s. The basal ganglia?
Where is the centre of mass?
About 10cm below your naval
What is the base of support?
All the areas of the ground you are touching e.g. chair legs, feet - this is seen as a line around these areas.
What is the centre of gravity?
The imaginary vertical line moving through your head, spine to the ground. The body tries to orientate itself around this point
What is the relationship between these factors?
If the centre of mass moves out of the base of support, you will lose your balance.
What are the 2 types of balance? Define them.
Static balance - The ability of the person to maintain their centre of mass within their base of support when static.
Dynamic balance - The ability of the person to maintain their centre of mass within their base of support when moving.
What is equilibrium?
Automatic adjustments to changes in posture and muscle tone by the body muscles/joints to maintain balance.
What is the righting reaction?
A reflex that corrects the orientation of the body when it is taken out of its normal upright position.
What is the saving reaction?
Abduction and extension bilaterally of legs and arms in preparation for weight bearing by increasing the base of support.
