Individual differences in proprioceptive reorientation: a study on body characteristics and Posturography

Abstract

Spatial reorientation guided by the proprioceptive information derived from walking on a slanted floor has revealed large individual and sex differences. Here we addressed the role of body characteristics and measures of stability and balance-related sensory function from computerized dynamic posturography. Blindfolded participants walked in a slanted arena and had to identify the uphill direction (Perceptual task) and use the slope to remember the location of a target object (Memory task). Male participants performed better in the Perceptual task. In the Memory task, heavier participants made smaller errors, suggesting that body mass may influence how we navigate in the environment.