Wavelet decomposition in analysis of impact of virtual reality head mounted display systems on postural stability

This study investigated how spatial projection systems influences body balance including postural stability. Analyzing precisely defined frequency bands of movements of the center of pressure makes it possible to determine the effectiveness of the balance system’s response to disruptions and disorders and may be used as an indicator in the diagnosis of motor dysfunction. The study involved 28 participants for whom the center of pressure was assessed in a test with open eyes, closed eyes and with virtual reality projection. Percent distributions of energy during wavelet decomposition were calculated. Changes in body stability were determined for the virtual reality tests and these changes were classified as an intermediate value between the open-eyes test and the closed-eyes test. The results indicate the importance of using safety support systems in therapies involving Virtual Reality. The results also show the necessity of measurements times in stabilographic evaluations in order to conduct a more thorough analysis of very low frequencies of the center of pressure signal.