Stepping responses for reactive balance for individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury

Feasibility of Using A Depth Camera Or Pressure Mat for Visual Feedback Balance Training with Functional Electrical Stimulation

“…Studies on visual feedback balance training (VFBT) have shown it to improve standing [11] and sitting postural control [12] in individuals with stroke and spinal cord injury. Studies suggest that improvements in postural control due to VFBT can be attributed to sensorimotor integration and increased coordination through task-speci c training [7], [9]- [13].…”

“…While there have been studies that investigate the use of depth cameras and pressure mats for feedback to FES systems [26], [33] and balance rehabilitation [19], [34], [35], to our knowledge, there has not been studies that validate a hybrid FES and VFBT system. Previous studies by our research group have developed a novel VFBT system coupled with closed-loop FES using transcutaneous electrodes for rehabilitation of standing balance (FES + VFBT system) [13], [21]. The proposed FES + VFBT system capitalizes on FES-driven neural plasticity along with VFBT to improve lower limb motor function and standing balance.…”

“…As part of the system, the FES controller mimics physiological activation of muscles during the balance tasks. A pilot study evaluating the training effect of this current FES + VFBT system with ve individuals with iSCI/D yielded promising results showing increased range in COP displacement and improved clinical balance scores [13], [21]. However, translation of this system into the clinics is limited by the required equipment, particularly the force plate that is used for both the visual feedback and for the FES controller.…”