First-order statistics of human stabilogram

We investigated the statistical properties of the centre of pressure (COP) vector during quiet standing, as measured on a force platform. To derive a statistical model for the data, the COP vector, locally averaged COP, and deviations from the average COP were analysed. Whereas indefinite multimodal distributions for the components of the COP were observed, the density functions of deviation from the averaged COP had reproducible properties. The anterior-posterior and mediolateral components of the deviations had in common that they were correlated variables with a non-circular statistic. The main axes of the equiprobability density curves were rotated with respect to the natural anterior-posterior and mediolateral directions. By means of more detailed statistical analysis of the data, two distinct populations of subjects were identified. In some cases we have found Gaussian distributions of the components of deviation from the average COP. In most cases the statistics was non-Gaussian. The average contrast, a new dimensionless characteristic quantity, independent of platform calibration, was introduced as a useful indicator of non-Gaussian effects in the postural control system. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.