Mobile Robot-based Exergames for Navigation Training and Vestibular Rehabilitation

The vestibular system is the leading sensory system that contributes to the sense of balance and to spatial orientation for the purpose of movement coordination. Vestibular disorders are incredibly common, and exhibit many different symptoms including vertigo, unsteadiness and navigation issues, but also emotional and social problems. Many of the assessment, training and rehabilitation approaches developed so far cannot guarantee the necessary degree of usability, measurability and repeatability. This paper presents the preparatory steps towards the design of a methodology for treating vestibular disorders that combines established methods with innovative, robot-based exergames to foster, among others, engagement and flexibility. Preliminary results obtained through a user study that involved non-pathological subjects offered helpful indications that could be exploited in the design and validation of novel rehabilitation protocols in the field.