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Differential Sensitivity Between a Virtual Reality Balance Module and Clinically Used Concussion Balance Modalities
Elizabeth F Teel1, Michael R Gay, Peter A Arnett
1*Department of Kinesiology, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania; †Penn State Center for Sport Concussion Research and Services, University Park, Pennsylvania; ‡Human Movement Science Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; and §Department of Psychology, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania.
Virtual reality balance assessments demonstrate high sensitivity and specificity for detecting lingering balance deficits in individuals with concussions. This technology shows promise as a valuable tool in clinical concussion evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Technology
Background:
- Clinical concussion evaluation typically includes balance assessments, neuropsychological testing, and symptom checklists.
- Virtual reality (VR) offers new possibilities for balance assessments in concussion care.
- Limited data exists on the sensitivity and specificity of VR balance assessments for concussion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the sensitivity and specificity of a virtual reality (VR) balance module.
- To evaluate the VR module's effectiveness in detecting lingering balance deficits in clinical concussion care.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case-control study was conducted in an institutional research laboratory.
- Participants included 94 normal controls and 27 individuals with concussions.
- All participants completed a VR balance assessment; concussed individuals were tested 7-10 days post-injury.
Main Results:
- Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine sensitivity and specificity.
- A cutoff score of 8.25 on the VR balance module yielded 85.7% sensitivity and 87.8% specificity.
- These results indicate high accuracy in detecting balance deficits.
Conclusions:
- The VR balance module demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for identifying subacute balance deficits following concussive injury.
- This VR tool may detect deficits missed by traditional tests like the Balance Error Scoring System or Sensory Organization Test.
- VR balance modules represent a potentially valuable addition to the concussion diagnostic toolkit.
