EquipmenT

In our laboratory we have a complete methodological approach to study balance and walking by combining various neurophysiological techniques: 

  • Electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves (with electrodes)
  • Galvanic vestibular stimulations (electrical stimulations targeting the inner ear to simulate a perturbation of the balance)
  • Non-invasive brain stimulation
 

We evaluate the neural network while participants are performing different tasks such as:

  • Maintaining their balance on a moving platform
  • Walking on a split-belt treadmill 
  • Performing a muscle contraction with the arm or leg 
 

In addition, we evaluate the participants’ performance on each of the tasks using different biomechanical approaches, such as:

  • Surface electromyography (EMG) (a non-invasive technique that records muscular activity using electrodes placed on the skin surface overlying the muscle)
  • Force measurements and 3D analysis of whole body movements

Photo Credit: Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation (www.crir.ca)

Watch it in this video