An analysis of Postural Reactions on a Bolster-Swing : A study of healthy children

Abstract

Sensory integration therapy for children with developmental disabilities consists of providing sensory stimulation using various toys in accordance with the individual characteristics of the disabilities. A type of therapy that stimulate the vestibular system employs a method in which the child receives swinging stimulation while riding a bolster swing that is hooked to the ceiling while trying to maintain postural balance. Many therapists have provided this therapy to disabled children with maldeveloped postural reactions. However, few studies have used objective indicators to analyze postural reactions in subjects riding the bolster swing. Furthermore, effects of the bolster swing have not yet fully analyzed. The present study used a three-dimensional motion analysis to examine healthy 5 to 6year-olds head and trunk reactions of when riding the bolster swing. Children who were able to ride the bolster swing showed different reaction tendencies of head and trunk and of lateral displacement of the top of the head compared to those who were unable to ride the bolster swing.