title: Efficacy of virtual reality-based balance training versus the Biodex balance system training on the body balance of adults.
abstract: [Purpose] This study investigated efficacy of virtual reality (VR)-based balance training on enhancing balance and postural reactions of adults as a low-cost new modality compared to the established Biodex Balance System (BBS). [Subjects] Thirty normal adults of both genders were divided randomly into two equal-sized experimental groups of 15: BBS balance training and VR balance training. [Methods] The training programmes were conducted in 12 sessions, three 15-min sessions per week. The Nintendo(®) Wii Fit Plus (NWFP) and its balance board were used to train of the VR group. Each participant answered a questionnaire concerning usability, enjoyment, balance improvement, and fatigue at the end of the training programs. [Results] The study found a significant increase the measure of mean overall balance (OLB) in both groups. No significant difference was found between the groups, but a significant decrease in the mean balance-test time was found for both groups, with no significant difference between the two training methods. The VR programme was rated highly enjoyable by 81.8% of the group. [Conclusion] The Wii Fit Plus system with the balance board as a new VR balance-training technique, can be considered an effective and enjoyable tool for the training of adults' body balance.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt.
authors.forename: Manal S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Ibrahim
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt.
authors.forename: Ayman G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Mattar
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Egypt.
authors.forename: Salam M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Elhafez
keywords: Adults; Biodex balance training; Virtual reality