Systems approach to slips and falls research

Abstract

Research in slips and falls has traditionally focused on body kinematics and tribology; however, this approach does not allow scientists to assess the importance of each component in relation to the complete system, and thus lacks integration. The purpose of this paper is to present and demonstrate one or more components of a broad analysis for in-depth understanding of slips and falls. In most slips and falls studies, balance analysis is simplified and attributed to the fixed point of a heel contact. However, one must ask the question 'is the force interaction between shoe and floor the only critical parameter during slips and falls?' To determine sufficient fall prevention strategies, one needs to analyse balance before the critical moment of lost control. Such an approach requires the science of biomechanics, mechanics, anatomy, neuromuscular control, as well as tribology. This paper discusses how new insights into assessment of stability can be applied to the practical research of slips and falls.