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A Human-machine-interface Integrating Low-cost Sensors with a Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation System for Post-stroke Balance Rehabilitation
Published on: April 12, 2016
Force platform feedback for standing balance training after stroke.
R Barclay-Goddard1, T Stevenson, W Poluha
1School of Medical Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Manitoba, School of Medical Rehabiltation, R106-771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R3E 0T6. barclayg@ms.umanitoba.ca
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|October 21, 2004
Summary
Force platform feedback, using visual or auditory cues, improved stance symmetry in stroke survivors. However, it did not enhance clinical balance outcomes or measures of independence.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Science
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Standing balance deficits are a significant challenge for individuals post-stroke.
- Force platform feedback, delivered visually or auditorily, is a potential intervention to address these deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of visual or auditory force platform feedback in improving standing balance in stroke patients.
- To assess impacts on both clinical and laboratory-based balance measures.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- Searched multiple databases (Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, etc.) up to May 2003.
- Included seven trials with 246 participants comparing force platform feedback to other balance treatments.
Main Results:
- Force platform feedback did not improve clinical balance measures (e.g., Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go).
- Significant improvements were observed in stance symmetry indicators with visual feedback (SMD -0.68) and combined visual/auditory feedback (WMD -4.02).
- No significant effects were found on postural sway, clinical outcomes, or functional measures at follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Force platform feedback (visual or auditory) effectively enhances stance symmetry in individuals with stroke.
- This feedback modality did not demonstrate improvements in standing sway, clinical balance assessments, or functional independence.
