Proposal of a Serious Game for Dynamic Balance Training Using a Force Platform: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

Background: Physical training to improve balance in the elderly has shown excellent results, but maintaining consistent participation in such programs is challenging. Objective: To address this, a laterolateral balance simulation game controlled by a biaxial force platform was developed to support balance rehabilitation and encourage regular training. Method: The game was created using the Unity engine, with 3D models designed in Blender, including the "Relaxed Man Character" asset for the avatar. The player's objective is to maintain balance on a virtual board supported by a cylinder, controlled via the biaxial force platform. Validation involved structural tests, usability testing (System Usability Scale), and a pilot test with 10 healthy young volunteers. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Shapiro-Wilk and t-Student tests (P < 0.05) in Jamovi software. Results: Results indicated that the game performed as expected, and the usability test yielded an excellent score (81.5 points) from experts. The pilot test revealed that individualized calibration allowed for personalized training, with volunteers' scores improving by 17.6% in the second session of day 1, 26% in the first session of day 2, and 8.5% in the second session of day 2. Conclusion: The balance simulation effectively replicated the foot pressure movements needed to control an avatar on a virtual board. This personalized approach made the game accessible and easy to use for players. Future work will involve testing the game with the target elderly population, increasing the number of sessions, and analyzing muscle activation to fully determine the game's impact.