The Balance Tracking System (BTrackS) is an FDA-registered medical device used to provide objective balance assessments and rehabilitation training through “gold standard” force plate technology.
Core Components
- BTrackS Balance Plate: A portable, lightweight (<15 lbs) rectangular platform (40 x 60 cm) featuring corner strain-gauge sensors that measure vertical ground reaction forces.
- Assess Balance Software: A Windows-based application that processes sensor data via USB to calculate an individual’s Center of Pressure (CoP) and postural sway.
Key Protocols
The system includes up to 14 specialized modules for testing and rehabilitation:
- Balance and Fall Risk Assessment: Measures postural sway during four 20-second trials. Results are compared to a database of over 20,000 norms to categorize risk as Low, Moderate, or High.
- Modified CTSIB (mCTSIB): Evaluates the three main sensory feedback systems—proprioception, vision, and vestibular—by testing balance under varying conditions (e.g., eyes open/closed, firm vs. foam surface).
- Limits of Stability (LOS): A dynamic test where users lean as far as possible in all directions to measure their functional base of support.
- Training Modules: Uses real-time biofeedback (a “yellow dot” representing CoP) to help users improve control through target-based exercises (e.g., Random, Tracking, or Diagonal targets).
Applications & Benefits
- Clinical Use: Employed by physical therapists, chiropractors, and MDs for fall prevention, concussion management, and orthopedic evaluations.
- Research: Validated in over 80 published studies, demonstrating high accuracy (<1% error) and reliability comparable to expensive laboratory-grade force plates.
- Portability: Designed for easy transport, requiring only a USB connection to a laptop or tablet for power and data transmission.
Manufacturer: Balance Tracking Systems, Inc.
Addresses:
- 3414 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116, USA
- Phone: +1 888-811-0054
Product Prices
- Cost: The professional Assess Balance System is priced at approximately $3,150.00.
- Requirements: Compatible with Windows 10/11 devices using Intel or AMD processors; it is not compatible with Snapdragon (ARM) processors.
Free References
Validating the BTrackS Balance Plate as a low cost alternative for the measurement of sway-induced center of pressure
The Balance Tracking System (BTrackS) for Postural Control Assessment/Training – a Decade of Research
Six Weeks of at Home BTrackS Target Tracking Training Induces Sustained Dynamic Balance Improvement in Healthy Young Adults
Combination of BTrackS and Geri-Fit as a targeted approach for assessing and reducing the postural sway of older adults with high fall risk
An initial set of reference values for the Balance Tracking System (BTrackS) Limits of Stability protocol
BTrackS limits of stability test is a reliable assessment of volitional dynamic postural control
BTrackS Balance Test for Concussion Management is Resistant to Practice Effects
Lower limb asymmetry evaluation using the balance tracking system (BTrackS) single leg stance protocol
Preseason to postseason changes on the BTrackS force plate in a sample of college athletes
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