Vibrotactile -Feedback Device for Postural Balance Among Malocclusion Patients

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Clinical Orthodontics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Occlusal factors are linked to postural alterations.
• Malocclusion may impact overall body posture and balance.
• Effective interventions for malocclusion-related postural issues are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess a vibrotactile posture trainer's efficacy in improving postural balance among malocclusion patients.
• To measure changes in neck flexion and center of pressure (COP) using the device.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four subjects with Angle's class I, II, and III malocclusion were divided into three groups.
• A 4-week training program utilized a wearable device providing vibrotactile feedback for neck flexion exceeding 15 degrees.
• Posture was evaluated using neck flexion angles and force plate-measured COP.

Main Results:

• Patients with class II malocclusion showed significant reductions in neck flexion angles and COP after training.
• No significant changes in these parameters were observed in class I and class III malocclusion groups.

Conclusions:

• The vibrotactile posture trainer effectively improved postural balance in class II malocclusion patients.
• The device demonstrated potential for clinical application in managing malocclusion-related postural deficits.