Frontal plane sloped support surfaces: their effect on body balance and posture organization

Introduction: Sloped surfaces are common in daily life, as ground surfaces are frequently inclined for purposes such as accessibility, transportation, and drainage. This study assessed how support surfaces inclined in the frontal plane might affect body balance and posture. Methods: Fifteen subjects underwent a posturographic examination with the support surface sloped at 0°, 7°, and 15°. The tests were associated with goniometric measurements of knees and hips, and surface EMG of the Tibialis Anterior, Soleus, Rectus Femoris, and Biceps Femoris. Results: It has been shown that standing on a lateral sloped surface shifts the CP toward the direction of the slope and increases the CP velocity and mean displacement. Goniometric data revealed that the knees and ankles were flexed on the contralateral side of the slope, with a higher activity of the Rectus Femoris and Tibialis Anterior. Discussion: From the main findings, it was assumed that surfaces inclined in the frontal plane result in poorer body balance and increased fall risk. This might have significant implications in rehabilitation and accessibility.