Postural Control in Bipolar Disorder: Increased Sway Area and Decreased Dynamical Complexity
2011

Postural Control in Bipolar Disorder: Increased Sway Area and Decreased Dynamical Complexity

Sample size: 32 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Amanda R. Bolbecker, Hong S. Lee, Kent Jerillyn S., Klaunig Mallory J., O'Donnell Brian F., Hetrick William P.

Primary Institution: Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America

Hypothesis

Postural control deficits are present in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Conclusion

Individuals with bipolar disorder exhibit increased sway area and decreased complexity in postural control, indicating poorer motor regulation.

Supporting Evidence

  • The bipolar disorder group had increased sway area, indicative of reduced postural control.
  • Decreased complexity in the medio-lateral direction was observed for the bipolar disorder group.
  • Significant interactions between diagnostic group and visual condition were observed.

Takeaway

People with bipolar disorder have a harder time standing still than those without the disorder, especially when they can't see.

Methodology

Participants stood on a force platform under different visual and base conditions while their postural sway was measured.

Potential Biases

Potential confounding factors include medication regimens and previous alcohol dependence.

Limitations

The study's findings may be influenced by medication effects and the heterogeneity of the bipolar disorder group.

Participant Demographics

16 individuals with bipolar disorder (7 women) and 16 age-matched healthy controls (9 women).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0019824

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