Improvement in Balance and Stability Using a Novel Sensory Application: Haptic Vibrotactile Trigger Technology
Authors: Haddad John , Dhaliwal Baldeep S , Dhaliwal Manny S , Hurwitz Peter 
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Posture and balance are predominantly controlled by intricate mechanisms fluctuating between sensory and motor modules located in the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum. They rely upon the ongoing cycle of synchronization of the sensory system (i.e., vestibular, visual, somatosensory), the cognitive system (central nervous system), and musculoskeletal system. As we age, physiological changes occur in each one of the sensory systems resulting in an increased risk of falling primarily due to the difficulties of maintaining postural control and balance. Peripheral and central nervous system (PNS/CNS) communications are crucial in determining sensory input and motor output in response to various external and internal stimuli. Understanding the neuronal pathways and networks associated in balance control is crucial in neuropathology and how they are influenced by and respond to external stimuli. There have been several therapeutic approaches identified and shown to be effective to assist with improving balance and stability in addition to possibly preventing, delaying, and reversing frailty. Some of these approaches may not be a realistic option as they require a high level of mobility. Alternative strategies, including new technologies focusing on improving balance and stability may provide promise for those with decreased or limited mobility. The neuromuscular system along with the neural pathways are constantly engaged as the body must continuously adjust to ongoing environmental stimuli for successful movement and fall prevention. Synchronization of the visual, vestibular, and tactile senses should be working together with the neuromuscular system in order to control body alignment and to promote the proper motor output. Haptic vibrotactile trigger technology (VTT) targets the neural pathways and was designed and developed to assist with improving balance, stability, pain, sleep, and other areas of health and wellness. The technology has been incorporated into apparel and other non-invasive routes of delivery such as non-pharmacological patches, braces, wrist bands, and compression sleeves. The purpose of this minimal risk study was to explore the effects of haptic vibrotactile trigger technology (VTT) enhanced socks and its effect on balance and stability with those patients that wore regular cloth socks that were not embedded with the technology. Methods: This Institutional Review Board-approved study compared the efficacy of haptic vibrotactile trigger technology (Superneuro VTT Enhanced Socks (Srysty Holding Co., Toronto, Canada)) and its effect on balance and stability with those subjects that wore regular cloth socks that were not embedded with the technology. Sixty-nine (69) subjects (n=44 males, 25 females) were enrolled in the study after providing consent. A Sway Medical Balance Assessment was taken on each subject while wearing the VTT Enhanced Socks and while wearing regular socks not embedded with the VTT technology. Overall Sway Medical Balance Assessment Scores were obtained, evaluated, and compared for each subject. A one-way ANOVA F test was performed to compare and identify change in means in VTT enhanced socks and regular socks. Results: The results showed a distinct and statistically significant difference in the Sway Medical Balance Assessment Scores between those subjects wearing regular socks and the haptic vibrotactile trigger technology (VTT) enhanced socks. The mean difference in Sway Medical Balance Assessment Scores between the regular socks and the VTT enhanced socks was 31%, with the increase and positive subject response to the VTT enhanced socks being significantly higher than with the regular sock type. Conclusions: Study results indicate that subjects wearing socks embedded with haptic vibrotactile trigger technology (VTT) demonstrated an improvement in overall Balance and Stability Scores. TT Enhanced Socks appeared to influence neuromuscular balance and stability control centers and sensory, cognitive, and musculoskeletal areas of the brain. It has the potential to become a beneficial treatment option and solution for clinicians, their patients, and those suffering from various ailments while limiting risks associated with conventional treatments. The results support further research into the use of this haptic vibrotactile trigger technology (VTT) to confirm the impact on balance and stability, Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and Quality of Life (QoL) components.