Evaluation of user experience of a computer vision-based stabilometry system in Multiple Sclerosis

Evaluación de la experiencia del usuario de un sistema de estabilometría para esclerosis múltiple basado en visión por computadora

Computarized posturography is a set of methods and techniques intended to provide objective measures of the balance function of a subject with postural control system alterations, in order to support diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Modern computerized posturography systems yield accurate and reliable representations of the patient performance, such as force platform-based stabilograms (an account of the center of pressure trajectory along a balance test). However, such tests are quite expensive and usually imply uncomfortable displacements and procedures, such as marker placement protocols. As an alternative, recent developments on video-based stabilometry systems offer portable, low-cost computarized posturography solutions. This work presents an exploratory study on the user experience of the application of such systems in balance function assessment tests for both patients with diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and clinical personnel. The reception reported by the survey is highly positive, yet it points out that some improvements in the preparation of clinical staff to interpert stabilometry results are required, and summarized balance function descriptors could be necessary.