Changes in balance and strength parameters induced by training on a motorised rotating platform: a study on healthy subjects.

AIM The aim of the present study was to analyse the effects of training performed on a rotating, motorised platform (the Huber/SpineForce device from LPG Systems, Valence, France) intended to improve, postural control and muscle function. SUBJECTS Twelve healthy adults (divided into a sedentary group and an active group) took part in a two-month training programme (involving three sessions a week) on the SpineForce whole body rehabilitation device. METHOD Instrumental assessment of postural control (on a Satel platform) and muscle function (on a Cybex Norm) was performed before and after training. Postural control in various conditions was measured using a position parameter (the mean anteroposterior position of the centre of foot pressure [CoP]) and two stability parameters (maximum CoP displacement and CoP sway area). Assessment of the muscle function was performed during knee and spine extension and featured maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), root mean square (RMS) and neuromuscular efficiency (MVIC/RMS) measurements. RESULTS For static postural control, we observed a more forward CoP position in the maximum backward inclination condition (p<0.01) and a decrease in maximum CoP displacement in the "eyes closed on foam" and "maximum anterior inclination" conditions. In this latter condition, a lower CoP sway area was also noted (p<0.01). In terms of muscle function, a greater MVIC for knee extension was observed in the sedentary group only (p<0.05). These changes were not correlated with each another (p<0.05). However, the value of the pretraining maximum CoP displacement predicted its final value (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that static postural control responds to training on a Huber((R))/SpineForce rehabilitation device. It seems probable that a population with a low initial level of physical activity would benefit most from training on this type of device. This training could notably be applied to elderly or disabled people and especially those with sensorimotor disabilities.