Proposal of a Computerized System Based on Gametherapy to Reduce Postural Sway

For balance training, one of the methods used is gametherapy, which consists in the use of games for a better motivation of the patients. Thus, the objective of this work was to develop three games for balance training that explore laterolateral and anteroposterior movements, as well as the combination of both. The games were developed and tested with a force platform with controlled inclination, which is used to control the game avatars. To test the platform’s functionality, weights were placed on the equipment, and the response of the sensors was verified. The games were evaluated by two distinct groups of professionals: the first composed of 5 system/game developers, and the second by 5 physiotherapists. To this end, two questionnaires were developed based on regulatory standards for software development and quality and on the System Usability Scale (SUS). In the functionality test, the sensors responded by increasing their values according to the region of the platform being pressed. The responses obtained in the SUS questionnaire presented a score of 81 in the evaluation of the physiotherapists and 83 in the evaluation of the system developers. Both values classify the system as good, according to the SUS scale. Games can be a very useful tool with great potential for use in balance training and rehabilitation. The developed system may bring a significant improvement in treatments, as well as help the health professionals by increasing the possibilities of applied techniques, thus reaching a longer permanence of the patient during treatment, with the motivation to use the games.