Summary- 1. Computerized
postural sway measurement systems have been used recently in human physiology
and pharmocology for determining postural stability, but their applicability
for the assessment of the effects of exposure to neurotoxic agents is lacking.
2. We have examined the feasibility of using a computerized postural sway measurement
system to assess the postural sway parameters of manganese exposed workers compared
with a control group.
3. Sway parameter data were collected using a KISLTER multicomponent measuring
platform (Type 9281B) connected to VICON motion analysis system for 13 exposed
and 16 control subjects.
4.Significant differences in several of the sway parameters (Px, Py - mean distance
(mm), from the centre of the platform along the X-axis [anterior-posterior movement]
and Y-axis [lateral movement], respectively) between the exposed and control
groups were observed even after adjustment for possible confounders. Computerized
postural sway measurement system may be a useful method of assessing workers
exposed to neurotoxic agents affecting posture.