In Houston, there's been discussion for years about developing a "balance" protocol. However, there are many issues to be worked out with such a protocol.
- Is it performed on a standard pedobarograph mat? This means it must be big enough for both feet to stand.
- Is it sit-to-stand? Or just standing after a "start" signal?
- How are lab distractions managed? Stare at a dot on the wall?
- How long should the assessment be?
- Is it done per-foot, or just overall?
- Is it done both eyes-open and eyes-closed?
- What are the actual measurements? (Discussed below)
Regarding the measurements, this can be a nettlesome discussion. Most agree that a COP path is initially calculated, resulting in a series of X,Y coordinates. From there, one can take many directions:
- Velocity of the path?
- Do a best fit ellipse and take its area?
These are just a couple of things that can be calculated. There is an extensive (although nascent) literature on this. However, if a protocol is to be developed, the measures to appear on a patient report must be decided upon.
