The relationship between postural stability and virtual environment adaptation

Currently little is known about how adaptive responses to virtual environments are different between individuals who experience sickness related symptoms and those who do not. It is believed that sensory interactions between visually perceived self-motion and static inertial cues from vestibular and/or proprioceptive sensory systems contribute to the development of adaptation symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between adaptation symptoms and postural stability in a virtual environment (VE) driving simulator. In addition, the role of sensory interaction was assessed using direct electrical stimulation techniques of the vestibular and cutaneous sensory systems. Posture performance was measured using centre of pressure measures of single leg stance tests during eyes open and eyes closed conditions. Correlation analysis of postural measures and symptom scores were conducted, as well as analysis of variance of posture performance between SICK and WELL individuals. Results indicate that posture stability is negatively correlated to symptom reporting. WELL individuals displayed the greatest decrease in postural stability during eyes open single leg stance following VE simulation. Application of a secondary sensory stimulation (vestibular or cutaneous) resulted in increased visual dependency for postural control following simulation. Combined, these results suggest that sensory interactions drive postural changes that are observed following VE simulation and are related to how visual information is used to control posture.