Characteristics of visual feedback in postural control

In the present study, the visual feedback system in postural control was investigated. To suppress the vestibular and proprioceptive feedback paths, a subject stood on a force-measuring plate with a fixed back support. Because the subject's body was immovable under these conditions, the subject controlled a computer model which simulated body dynamics. Information on the sway angle of the model was fed visually. Under this condition, frequency response functions for the ankle moment in response tp the sway angle were calculated. The experimental results suggest that the visual feedback system contains a large time delay and, consequently, the visual system does not by itself allow a subject to maintain an upright posture.