Article

Several studies have reported altered postural control in people with
neck pain. The aim of this study was to increase the understanding of the nature
of altered postural control in neck pain by studying the slow and fast components
of body sway. Subjects with whiplash associated disorders (WAD, n = 21)
and chronic non-specific neck pain (NS, n = 24) were compared to healthy controls
(CON, n = 21) in this cross-sectional study. The magnitudes of the slow and fast
sway components were assessed in Rhomberg quiet stance for 30 s on a force plate
with eyes closed. We also investigated associations between postural sway and
symptoms, self-ratings of functioning and kinesiophobia. RESULTS: Increased
magnitude of the slow sway component was found in WAD, but not in NS. Greater
magnitude of the slow component in WAD was associated with poorer physical
functioning, including balance disturbances, and more severe sensory symptoms.
CONCLUSIONS: Increased magnitude of the slow sway component implies an aberration
in sensory feedback or processing of sensory information in WAD. The associations
between postural sway and self-rated characteristics support the clinical
validity of the test. Further investigation into NS, involving a longer test time
is warranted.
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Langue : ANGLAIS