Patent ID: 7465253

Claim:
A proactive machine for assessing and improving a user's proprioception, the machine comprising: (a) a tilting platform having a bottom and a top upon which the user stands; (b) a non-rotating tilting means connected to the platform for tilting the platform along a first axis and along a second axis, wherein said tilting means comprises a centrally-connected ball joint disposed underneath said platform, a first reciprocating actuator connected to said platform on said first axis and a second reciprocating actuator connected to said platform on said second axis; and (c) a control means for proactively controlling the tilting means; wherein the machine is adapted for the user to stand on the tilting platform, wherein the control means for controlling the tilting means causes the platform to tilt while the user stands on the tilting platform and reacts to maintain balance, and wherein the tilting platform tilts to an angle that does not exceed 25° from horizontal.