Assessing standing balance with MOTI: a validation study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the validity and reliability of a new device called MOTI for measuring balance by comparing its performance that with of the gold-standard force platform.

Methods: The study involved collecting data from both devices in dual- and single-leg standing positions with eyes open and closed and using statistical measures to compare their performance.

Results: The results showed that MOTI can accurately measure balance during dual-leg standing tasks but has poor to moderate performance during single-leg standing tasks. However, it could detect small changes in postural sway caused by a reduced base of support and/or visual feedback. The study also found that the test-retest reliability was poor to moderate for both devices.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that MOTI has potential as a reliable tool for measuring balance during certain tasks, but further research is needed to improve its performance during single-leg standing. This study provides valuable insights into the validity and reliability of MOTI for measuring balance and highlights the need for further investigation.

Keywords: accelerometer; balance assessment; postural control; validation.