Engineering Acoustics Incorporated — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: DHA211-006

Description

Balance training is used to improve postural stability after injury. Currently, the most common form of balance testing and training in clinics uses a balance board or stability ball to create an unstable surface to train the somatosensory system. Assessment methods rely on the judgement of the clinician. Objective testing is available using controlled clinical balance testing systems that incorporate programmable moving platforms capable of perturbing and measuring COM movement in a systematic and measurable way. Computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) systems are able to concurrently or independently manipulate the visual, vestibular, and somatosensory systems. This test is an objective Sensory Organization Test (SOT), which can help the clinician to determine if therapy is needed and which sensory system to focus on. More recent efforts have engaged the visual system by integrating virtual reality (VR) with static force measurement platforms to assess COM motion in various VR environments. While integrated VR systems have expanded the types of visual and vestibular perturbations available, use of a static force platform means the motor control system is not challenged or perturbed in a controlled manor. Systems with dynamic platforms would be beneficial for assessment and rehabilitation from vestibular and musculoskeletal injuries. This project seeks to develop a portable, customizable, computerized dynamic balance and measurement system that allows programmable levels of instability to deliver accurate Sensory Organization Tests in clinic, home, or field environments.