Correlation of Balance assessment tool with motion analysis parameter

Project Title

Correlation of Balance assessment tool with motion analysis parameter

Project Area of Specialization Biomedical EngineeringProject Summary Introduction:

Balance impairment is a disturbance that causes an individual to feel unsteady, for example when standing or walking. Many neurological and musculoskeletal disorders such as stroke and arthritis lead up to difficulties with balance or ambulation. People with age of 60 or above are even more prone to balance problems that affect their safe mobility. Literature Study- Statistics Balance dysfunctions can increase the risk of falls and injuries as shown in the graph shown below[1] and [2]. So there is a need for a balance assessment tool to measure static balance(stationary) and dynamic balance(balance during motion)

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Problem statement:

• The existing balance assessment clinical test available are prone to many errors as they are assesd human visual feedbacks
• Other Electronic/computerized test are very expensive.

Aim and objective:

The aim of this study is to correlate the results of standard clinical balance tests to the motion analysis parameters. As, its a computerized system Which may aid in better assessment of balance and less human error.

Procedure:

1. We selected two tests from all of the other available tests through the literature review. We learned and practiced the tests under clinician guidance to get familiar with tests.
   1. Two chosen tests are:

Timed-Up-And-Go

Berg Balance Test

1. We design a protocol to asses balance through visual feedbacks and cameras setup simultaneously. Overcame the challenges faced during protocol design.
2. Acquire and analyze data of healthy subjects.
3. Write up.

Reference:

[2] Browne, J. E., and N. J. O'Hare. "Review of the different methods for assessing standing balance." Physiotherapy 87.9 (2001): 489-495.

[2] Mancini, Martina, and Fay B. Horak. "The relevance of clinical balance assessment tools to differentiate balance deficits." European journal of physical and rehabilitation medicine 46.2 (2010): 239.

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• Timed-Up-And-Go

• Berg Balance Test

Project Objectives

The aim of this study is to correlate the results of standard clinical balance tests to the motion analysis parameters. As, its a computerized system Which may aid in better assessment of balance and less human error.

Project Implementation Method

The first part was the literature review and to select an appropriate test and learn them from the clinician.

Data collection setup is divided into two parts:

Hardware:

Data collection Set-up includes:

• OptiTract Flex 3 cameras.
• Stands.
• Computer system.
• OptiTract wires (3 meters long)
• OptiTract hub.
• Connecting wires.
• IR reflective markers.

Software: OptiTrack for Movement Sciences

System Set-up Design

1. Equipment was put together to reflect the protocol method.
2. System calibration was learned.
3. System set-up was extended to cover 15 ft. and oriented to cover whole body plane.

Protocol Design:

1. System set-up.
2. Calibration of cameras.
3. Participant is recruited.
4. Consent form filling.
5. Attachment of markers on the participant’s body.
6. Data recorded in two parts:
   1. Berg Balance Test.
   2. Timed-up-and-go Test.
7. Recording Stopped.
8. Markers removed.

Benefits of the Project

This project is beneficial in the field of medicine.

• It will improve the typical visual feedback used by clinicians to estimate balance impairment. As it will quantify values instead of grading technique used by clinicians.(reduce Human error)
• The machine when replaces a man is always economical and reduces the human effort. Fewer clinicians will be required.
• This device cost less then any other computerized system avalible.

Technical Details of Final Deliverable

The product will be delivered as follows

• Hardware part may include all the items mentioned above:

Cameras(4), stands(4), OPtiTract (all connecting wires as per required), PC, OptiTract hub etc.

• Software part includes the OptiTract software:

                     OptiTrack for Movement Sciences

• A room is needed to mount the cameras permanently where data will be acquired.
• An expert is required to install and maintain the setup.
• This will provide a setup  for computerized balance assement to reduce human error that occur during visual feedback system and also which is less coastly then tools avalible.

Final Deliverable of the Project HW/SW integrated systemCore Industry HealthOther Industries Medical Core Technology OthersOther TechnologiesSustainable Development Goals Good Health and Well-Being for People, Industry, Innovation and InfrastructureRequired Resources

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