Hypothesis on the neurophysiological architecture of postural control: validation in a model of Cerebral Palsy using frequency analysis

Abstract Introduction Traditional clinical motor function assessment scales, despite their importance, often fail to identify the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms of postural control disorders. In this regard, stabilography, as an objective quantitative method, acquires particular diagnostic value. The aim of this study was to identify and compare frequency markers of postural control disorders in adults with cerebral palsy (CP) and healthy subjects using stabilographic signal power analysis in narrow frequency ranges. Methods Stabilograms were recorded while performing a visual feedback task and its combination with additional cognitive loads in two groups: adults with CP (n=8) and a control group (n=8). For the analysis, the stabilographic signal power was calculated in ten narrow frequency ranges (0.05–12.0 Hz). Results Based on the analysis of the stabilographic signal power, individual postural control profiles were identified, defined by three key patterns: «hyperactivation», «exhaustion», and «optimization». The obtained data were interpreted within the framework of N.A. Bernstein’s level theory of movement construction, where the identified patterns reflect an imbalance or synergy of various postural regulation circuits—from subspinal to corticocerebellar. Conclusions The proposed method for analyzing stabilogram power enables the identification of individual neurophysiological profiles of postural control disorders. The identified «optimization» marker indicates preserved neuroplastic potential. The results of the work open the way to a well-founded personalized rehabilitation, the strategy of which consists of transforming a pathological pattern («hyperactivation», «exhaustion») into an optimal one («normalization») through targeted modulating effects on specific levels of movement construction.