Biofeedback-Based, Videogame Balance Training in Autism

Brittany G. Travers, Andrea H. Mason, Leigh Ann Mrotek, Anthony Ellertson, Douglas C. Dean, Courtney Engel, Andres Gomez, Olga I. Dadalko, Kristine McLaughlin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

34 Scopus citations

Abstract

The present study examined the effects of a visual-based biofeedback training on improving balance challenges in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Twenty-nine youth with ASD (7–17 years) completed an intensive 6-week biofeedback-based videogame balance training. Participants exhibited training-related balance improvements that significantly accounted for postural-sway improvements outside of training. Participants perceived the training as beneficial and enjoyable. Significant moderators of training included milder stereotyped and ritualistic behaviors and better starting balance. Neither IQ nor BMI moderated training. These results suggest that biofeedback-based balance training is associated with balance improvements in youth with ASD, most robustly in those with less severe repetitive behaviors and better starting balance. The training was perceived as motivating, further suggesting its efficacy and likelihood of use.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)163-175
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Volume48
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2018

Keywords

  • Motor
  • Postural stability
  • Technology-based interventions
  • Video game

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