Using auditory feedback for the rehabilitation of symmetrical body-weight distribution after ischemic stroke or brain trauma

This paper addresses the development and preliminary user test of the Music Balance Board, an auditory force plate feedback tool for weight-shift training in patients with impairment in balance function. This newly developed system provides auditory feedback based on real-time sonification of weight distribution. In an exploratory study, twelve patients after ischemic stroke or brain trauma performed standing weight-shifting activities guided by the system. This study aimed at: (1) exploring the potential of interacting with a musical environment as a way to retrain how to keep equilibrium while standing, (2) investigating usage strategies of the Musical Balance Board, and (3) studying various sonification modes with different levels of complexity. A model involving associative, explorative and anticipative sonification strategies was tested. The model supports exploration of the ability of using auditory feedback to facilitate reinforcement learning for technology-assisted rehabilitation. Our results suggest that important requirements for designing sonification modes for balance training in people with brain damage are comprehensiveness, simplicity, attractiveness of the soundscape, and most of all musical pleasure.