Title: Augmented Reality-Based Closed-Loop Rehabilitation for Postural Instability in Ataxia
Principal researchers: Boubker Zaaimi (Aston University, UK), Prof Stuart Baker (Newcastle University, UK), Prof Mark Baker (Newcastle University, UK) and Dr David Punt (University of Birmingham and Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust, UK).
Scientific summary:
Ataxia UK has recently awarded funding for a pilot project which aims to assess the feasibility of augmented reality (AR)-based balance training in ataxia. The researchers will measure vestibular function changes using gVEMP testing. They then plan to evaluate improvements in postural control via clinical scales and accelerometer-based sway analysis.
During the study, they will gather participant feedback to refine the intervention. They will establish baseline responses in healthy controls before testing ataxia patients. The researchers aim to develop a closed-loop AR system integrating head-mounted accelerometers and real-time visual manipulation.
To achieve these aims, they will carry out a single-arm pilot study with 10-15 healthy controls followed by 10-15 ataxia patients. This will involve pre-intervention assessment, followed by 8-12 weeks of AR-based balance training (twice-weekly, for 30-minutes each) at the study site at Aston University, Birmingham, then a post-intervention assessment. The closed-loop system includes an XSense IMU accelerometer for real-time sway measurement, a Google Glass camera for real-world video capture, a MATLAB processing unit for visual transformation and the AR display (headset/projector) for feedback delivery.
This study will generate preliminary data for a larger clinical trial on AR-based vestibular training in ataxia.
Lay Summary:
Ataxia is a condition that affects balance, coordination, and movement, often leading to frequent falls and difficulty with daily activities. Current rehabilitation methods, such as physiotherapy, can help improve balance, but they require regular access to specialists and clinics, which is not always possible for everyone.
This project aims to develop a new rehabilitation approach using augmented reality (AR) technology. AR allows us to add computer-generated images to the real world, helping individuals with ataxia see an exaggerated version of their own movements. By providing real-time visual feedback on their balance, this system can help train the brain to adjust and improve stability over time.
The researchers will test this system first with healthy individuals to ensure it works correctly, then with people with ataxia. Participants will wear a small sensor that detects their natural body sway and a headset that slightly exaggerates their movement on the screen. Over time, this feedback will help the brain learn to correct balance more effectively.
The goal is to make balance training more engaging and accessible. Unlike expensive virtual reality (VR) systems, which require full immersion in a digital world, AR allows individuals to train in their home environment while still receiving helpful visual feedback.
If successful, this research could lead to a larger study and eventually provide people with ataxia a new tool for improving their balance and reducing falls. This could greatly enhance independence and quality of life for those affected by the condition.
If you are interested in taking part in this study, which will begin in November 2025, please email Dr Zaaimi on B.zaaimi@aston.ac.uk.
Ataxia UK, 12 Broadbent Close, London, N6 5JW
Website: www.ataxia.org.uk.
Helpline: 0800 995 6037
Tel: +44 (0)20 7582 1444
Email: helpline@ataxia.org.uk.
