Balance control enhancement using sub-sensory stimulation and visual-auditory biofeedback strategies for amputee subjects.

TLDR: Experimental results showed an improvement in three balance performance indices during single leg quiet standing by applying sub-sensory stimulation and visual-auditory biofeedback rehabilitation strategies may be effective in compensating sensory loss and improving static balance and dynamic ambulation performance for amputees.

Abstract: Sub-sensory electrical or mechanical stimulation can enhance the sensitivity of the human somatosensory system to improve the balance control capabilities of elderly. In addition, clinical studies suggest that visual-auditory biofeedback can improve sensory compensation for the elderly. This study hypothesizes that the static balance and gait performance of single leg quiet standing and treadmill walking could be improved for providing proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation using sub-sensory stimulation and visual-auditory biofeedback in amputee subjects. To test this, a computerized foot pressure biofeedback sensory compensation system using sub-threshold low-level electrical stimulation combined with visual-auditory biofeedback was developed. Seven unilateral trans-tibial amputees who wore prostheses over 2 years were recruited. The subjects performed multiple single leg quiet standing trials with sub-sensory electrical stimulation applied at the quadriceps muscle during half of the trials. Static ba...