This study investigates the functional stability limits (FSLs) in the squatting positions.Eleven male participants leaned and moved their pelvis horizontally in the clockwise and counter-clockwise directions while squatting at 11 depth levels. The depth was controlled by changing the hip height from 100% to 0% of the upright position. The FSLs and the center of pressure excursion lengths were calculated from the force-plate data, and the musculoskeletal loads on the lower limbs were estimated from the joint torques and surface electromyograms. As the hip height reduced, the area of the FSLs narrowed by up to 20% of the base of support (BOS) area at the deepest squatting position. The narrowing was affected by the decreasing FSLs in the forward direction, which also decreased by up to 20% of BOS. These quantitative data accurately evaluate the postural stability, suggesting a considerable fall risk during tasks requiring the squatting position. K E Y W O R D S center of pressure, functional stability limits, musculoskeletal loads, postural stability, squatting posture
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