Use of a Vibrotactile Balance Belt System for Vestibular Rehabilitation in the Pediatric Population

With this device, a subject stands on a force platform on the ground, which measures his/her center of pressure. Additionally, there is laptop displaying the video-based exercise programs and a camera that senses the subject's linear sway, roll, and pitch. Information about the subject's position is transmitted via Bluetooth technology to a non-invasive vibrotactile belt which fits comfortably around the subject's waist, over his/her clothing. Using the Sensory Kinetics software, the subject will play a series of games projected on the laptop screen, which prompt him/her to sway in various directions while keeping both feet planted on the force platform.

This is the standard three-month vestibular rehabilitation therapy that patients are routinely referred to at Boston Children's Hospital.