Advanced Balance Metrics to Assess mTBI
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a significant problem in the armed services. Among United States Army Special Operations Comma"nd (USASOC) personnel, thirteen percent of service members have been diagnosed with at least one mTBI and likely the rates of mTBI a""re even higher during deployment. mTBI, especially multiple brain injuries, represent an increasedrisk for stress disorders (PTSD)"" and suicide in military personnel. Currently, many of the readily identifiable markers of mTBI resolve quickly (e.g., headaches, di""zziness, nausea, etc.); however, substantial post-concussive symptoms and deficit may persist. Neurocognitive tests (e.g., ImPACT) a""re widely used to assess mTBI symptoms. These tests have many limitations and therefore, it is paramount to determine appropriate ti"me for return to duty criteria throughobjective assessment. Balance testing is well-supported objective measure of post-concussion impairment and can be used to detect differences in even asymptomatic individuals. For balance testing to have the biggest impact o"n assessment of mTBI, it needs occur in the field. Recent and ongoing technology advancements (Ning device) provide the potential fo""r infield balanceassessment. However, prior to implementation of this technology, comparisons to measurements made from conventiona"l systems should be performed. The overall goal of this research is to develop a series of balance tests and metrics that can identi"fy mTBI in the field. Towards meeting that goal, we propose two specific aims as part of this grant: To investigate a range ofbalan""ce metrics between typical balance and different axes of impairment, including mTBI, fatigue and reduced plantar sensation; and to i""nvestigate reliability of advanced balance metrics using the Ning device and a traditional force platform. To this end, we will cond""uct a series of balance perturbation experiments using virtual reality, plantar mechanoreceptors sensation reduction, and physical f""atigue, make comparisons between the Ning Device and traditional measures of postural control including virtual-time-to-contact, cen""ter of pressure, approximate entropy and elucidate central neural framework of balance control using electroencephalogram (EEG). EE""G will allow us to evaluate the neural aspects of balance performance within specific brain areas, extend our understanding of postu""ral control, and along with other measuresdifferentiate mTBI balance impairment from other warfighter conditions that may impair ba""lance. Overall, the goal of this research as well as Performance Optimization Laboratory is to improve warfighter performance and re""siliency and ultimately, lead to a better objective assessment of mTBI to minimize risk and maximize combat readiness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 29, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141712723
Entities
People
- Zachary J Domire
Organizations
- East Carolina University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy