University of Guelph

Published purpose

Decreased foot sole skin input significantly reduces lower limb muscle activity, affecting balance and navigation in our environment. The research team has shown that short duration space flight alters the sensitivity of these foot sole skin receptors. These changes were significantly correlated to deficits in balance control. The current Head Down Bed Rest model isolates the impact of body unloading as a mechanism for these sensory changes. The research team aims to understand how the unloading triggers changes in skin feedback and whether countermeasures will reduce or eliminate these changes. This work will have a major impact on astronaut health and mobility and has significant implications for healthy aging on Earth.