Modified Star Excursion Balance test: Prototype development, correction, and reliability of measurements

Context

Biomechanical analyses of human movement require precise methods for quantifying measurements. The Modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT) is utilized by healthcare professionals and researchers to assess dynamic postural control. Despite its reliability, the manual application of mSEBT can introduce errors.

Objectives

(1) Develop a prototype using Arduino and a laser-sensor; (2) Evaluate and correct measurement errors using linear regression models; (3) Verify the reliability of the prototype under various configurations (height in relation to the ground, target distance, and test direction) of the mSEBT. Design: Observational Cross-sectional Case study.

Methods

Data were collected from a healthy participant using the mSEBT. The prototype was tested in various scenarios, encompassing different range directions, target distances, laser-sensor configurations, and heights from the ground. Linear regressions were applied to correct the values estimated by the prototype, and Intraclass Correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to validate the correction.

Results

The prototype presented systematic errors in certain scenarios, especially at distances of 10–40 cm and heights of 3–5 cm in relation to the ground. After applying linear regressions and reliability tests, the prototype demonstrated excellent reliability in all evaluation scenarios (r > 0.90; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In summary, correction equations in the prototype algorithm derived from linear regressions of various test scenarios, which allows for the automation of measurements in the mSEBT clinical test. This advancement can enhance accuracy, efficiency, and clinical applicability, benefiting physiotherapists, physical educators, doctors, and biomechanics in monitoring dynamic postural control across diverse populations.