Improving lower extremity joint kinematics during jump landing using an automated vibrotactile biofeedback system

Abstract

Real time motion monitoring and biofeedback is essential for efficient training, technique improvements and reducing the risk of injuries in sports training applications. This paper proposes a novel approach for measuring and improving jump landing technique based on lower extremity joint kinematics. The system consists of wireless wearable inertial sensors, a customised software for data processing and a wireless biofeedback unit including vibrotactile actuators for vibration feedback. Biofeedback is provided for knee angular measurements obtained with respect to predefined target thresholds. A drop vertical jump DVJ was utilised to verify the effects of real time vibrotactile feedback to improving knee flexion and abduction/adduction during the landing phase of the jump. The results confirmed the accuracy of the system for real time applications and the impact of vibrotactile biofeedback for augmenting the lower extremity joint kinematic motion during jump landing.