Age- and gender-specific normative data on computerized dynamic posturography in a cohort of Danish adults

Purpose Balance performance can be measured with a computerized dynamic posturography (CDP). Frequently used CDP protocols include the sensory organization test (SOT), motor control test (MCT) and adaptation test (ADT). The primary aim of this study was to produce normative data using the Bertec (R) Balance Advantage CDP on a cohort of healthy adults aged 20-79 years for the SOT, MCT and ADT. The secondary aim was to determine age- and gender-related differences. Methods The study population of 120 participants were divided into age groups of 20-29,30-39 years, etc., with an equal number of men and women in each group. Using the Bertec (R) CDP, the SOT, MCT and ADT protocols were performed. Results SOT found that the 70-79 age group and men scored lower equilibrium scores (ES) on SOT4, and SOT6. Women had higher ES on SOT1. For the MCT, backward translation latencies were higher for the 60 s and 70 s age groups. The 60 s age group had higher forward translation latencies. Women had lower latencies on all MCTs. For the ADT toes up test, the 70-79 age group scored higher sway energy. On the toes down test, higher sway energy was registered for the 50-79 age groups. Women had lower sway energy for both ADT's. Conclusion We have produced normative data for healthy adults aged 20-79 years for the SOT, MCT and ADT protocols using the Bertec (R) Balance Advantage CDP. Balance performance differences might be due to decline in visual acuity, presbyvestibulopathy and differences in body composition.

Automated summary

This study used the Bertec (R) Balance Advantage CDP to test the SOT, MCT, and ADT protocols on a cohort of healthy adults aged 20-79 years and produced normative data. The study found that balance performance differences might be due to decline in visual acuity, presbyvestibulopathy, and differences in body composition.