Assessment of Static and Dynamic Postural Control

Knowledge Offer, Oferta Tecnológica

Salud y Biomedicina

6 October 2026

Assessment of Static and Dynamic Postural Control

Analysis of the ability to control posture in different situations involving challenging balance conditions, including single-leg stance, tandem stance, sitting on an unstable seat, and performing trunk-strengthening exercises. Measurement of centre-of-pressure sway using force platforms or pelvic micro-movements using accelerometry integrated into smartphones.

TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION

Postural control is essential for maintaining proper alignment of the body’s segments, enabling them to function under optimal conditions and helping to prevent problems associated with poor posture. These tests can help reduce the risk of injuries resulting from poor posture, as well as improve balance. The following equipment is available to carry out these tests:

  • 2 Kistler force platforms (Kistler, Switzerland), model 9286AA (600 × 400 mm).
  • 2 Kistler force platforms (Kistler, Switzerland), model 9287CA (900 × 600 mm).
  • Mobile application for measuring postural control using 3D acceleration data.

Measurements are carried out by graduates in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences at the Biomechanics and Health Laboratory of Miguel Hernández University of Elche. Once the assessments have been completed and the data analysed, a report will be issued detailing the results obtained for the different variables examined. It will also include recommendations to help improve postural control, along with exercises to strengthen the trunk muscles, with the aim of enhancing postural control and reducing the risk of posture-related injuries.

TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS

The protocols developed enable various postural control assessment tests to be performed. These are particularly useful for populations with balance impairments, such as older adults and people with conditions including multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy. They can also be used with healthy individuals, including athletes whose performance depends directly or indirectly on postural control. Applications include:

  • Assessment of overall postural control in an upright position.
  • Assessment of trunk postural control.
  • Assessment of lower-limb instability when landing after lateral jumps.
  • Monitoring load distribution during trunk-strengthening exercises, such as bridges.
  • Assessment of stability during walking.

ADVANTAGES AND INNOVATIVE ASPECTS

For both tests performed using force platforms and those using mobile devices, our research group has developed dedicated software. This software can be adapted to the specific characteristics of each test and to the needs of the population being studied, as various parameters can be configured to adjust the difficulty level. For tests using force platforms, the software displays the participant’s centre of pressure on a screen in real time, together with a target point that the participant must track. Test difficulty can be adjusted by changing the speed, amplitude and predictability of the target point’s movement. In addition, tests based on mobile devices can be carried out outside the laboratory, offering greater flexibility and more assessment opportunities.

DEVELOPMENT STAGE

The assessment procedures are fully operational and routinely carried out at the centre. The research team has extensive experience in conducting these tests and analysing biomechanical data.

APPLICATION SECTORS

  • Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy Centres.
  • Sports Clubs and High-Performance Centres.
  • Neurology Clinics and Geriatric Units.
  • Occupational Accident Insurance Mutuals and Occupational Risk Prevention Services.
  • HealthTech and wearable technology developers.

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR

David Barbado Murillo – University Institute for Research, Sports Research Centre