A study of new evaluation and training devices of standing balance ability with sensory stimulation for the elderly and the disabled persons

在这项研究中，我们开发了一种装置，定量评估老年人站立时脚趾和脚底触觉阈值的变化以及脚踝关节的本体感觉。此外，我们分析了该装置通过对脚底和脚踝关节进行振动和本体感觉刺激来改善平衡不良的有效性。结果表明，青年组与老年组在足部触觉和踝关节本体感觉上有较大差异。该设备使测量站立时双腿的触觉和本体感觉成为可能。在未来，我们打算通过使用我们的设备来为改善平衡不良和防止老年人和残疾人跌倒做出贡献。

In this study, we developed a device that quantitatively evaluates the changes in threshold values for tactile sensation in the toes and soles and proprioception of the ankle joints in elderly adults while standing. Furthermore, we analyzed the effectiveness that the device can be utilized for improving a poor balance by using vibratory and proprioceptive sensory stimulation to the soles and ankle joints. The results showed the great difference in tactile sense of feet and proprioceptive sense of ankle joint between the young and elderly groups. The device has made it possible to measure tactile and proprioceptive sensation of the lower extremities while standing. In the future, we intend to contribute to improve poor balance and prevent falls of the elderly and the disabled persons by using our device.