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Rehabilitation Practice and Science

Abstract

Introduction: Balance is essential for athletic performance. This study compared immersive computer-assisted balance training using the Bertec Balance Advantage CDP/IVR system with traditional soft mat training in young athletes.

Methods: Twenty-two young athletes were randomly assigned to a soft mat group (n = 10) or a Bertec group (n = 12). Both groups completed four training sessions over two weeks. Balance was assessed pre- and post-training using the Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Limits of Stability (LOS) test, and Dynamic Visual Acuity (DVA) test. Two-way mixed ANOVA and Bonferroni-corrected post-hoc analyses were performed.

Results: Both groups improved in postural stability and vestibular function. A significant group × time interaction was found for directional control, with the Bertec group showing statistically significant improvement (mean increase of 4.38%, p = 0.005). In the DVA test, the soft mat group improved in the left direction but worsened in the downward direction. Changes observed in directional control, SOT equilibrium scores and DVA loss generally fell below minimal detectable change (MDC) thresholds, suggesting limited clinical relevance despite statistical significance.

Conclusion: The immersive computer-assisted training system was associated with improvement in directional control compared to traditional soft mat training. However, the observed changes did not exceed MDC thresholds and may reflect task-specific familiarity. While traditional balance exercises remain effective, the integration of immersive technology may offer additional benefits in optimizing balance performance among young athletes. Future research is warranted to validate these findings and explore their broader applications in athletic training.

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