Features and Benefits
Equilibrate is:
1. Full Body assessment.
Our system is the first (and only) technology to incorporate both and upper and lower body data into the balance assessment equation. Now that you know that balance assessment is important, are you only getting half of the picture? The system utilizes dynamic motion capture of key points on the upper body (trunk) and combines those data points with lower body force measurements into the overall scoring algorithm. Because of this, the system delivers a far more accurate and comprehensive view into a patient’s physical balance condition.
2. Efficient.
Our system is optimized for process and is easy to use. Clinicians get more throughput for their time spent with patients thus creating more billable opportunities. Our exercise library creates easily customizable & printable Home Exercise Programs (HEPs). Therapists can customize exercise protocols to meet the specific needs of each patient.
3. Demonstrates medical necessity.
As insurance companies require more supporting information to validate care, Equilibrate provides objective data for both initial need for care and patient progress (Equilibrate Therapy) throughout the care cycle.
4. Portable and non-invasive.
Caregivers and practices can extend their reach beyond the walls of an office. The ability to bring assessment and therapy to the patient can be invaluable.
5. Affordable.
Capital payback, in some cases, may be as short as 6 months. We also provide multiple options for acquisition.
6. Integrated.
The full set of searchable International Classification of Diseases ICD-9 codes are bundled into the application for ease of reference and portability to other systems. Patient records can easily be printed for filing or data can be exported to an EMR (Electronic Medical Records) system.
7. Uniquely objective.
Subjectivity is removed from the balance assessment process because Equilibrate‘s algorithms are based on on pure engineering and mathematical principles, taking any guesswork or inconsistency out of the scoring process.
8. Data Warehouse.
A full set of “Normalized Data” is used to measure the individual performing the balance assessment against those in their similar demographic age. As each user of Equilibrate performs additional assessments, their new data gets added to the Data Warehouse, making the comparison stronger with each new measure. This data will also become available for research use in the future.
TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION
Configuration of the Equilibrate System – The subject simply dons a lightweight vest decorated with specifically placed targets for image capture, and stands on separate right and left foot pads. Images from two cameras and multi-directional force telemetry from the footpads are integrated and analyzed by proprietary algorithms to generate objective, quantitative, and actionable output regarding comprehensive balance of the subject. Individual readings take very little time (~15 seconds) and range from stationary standing to single leg exercises to customizable therapy ‘modules.’
Equilibrate Interface – The computer screen through which the operator (physical therapist, doctor, clinician, field medic/trainer, etc.) interfaces is comprehensive, clear and easily navigable. Operators are given on-screen prompts as to the stage of the test or therapy and a clear indication as to procedure (minimal training is required for the operation of Equilibrate). Actionable outputs for the subject include scores for alignment, sway, and overall balance, as well as detailed and more subtle metrics of equilibrium for the healthcare professional. Output data are instantly stored and can be examined immediately at the time of measurement, or later for more complete interpretation of test results.
Equilibrate Development – The innovative approach of Balance Engineering was the avoidance of balance measurement techniques that are (A) subjective, or (B) not amenable to the mathematical integration of outputs from and across various parts of the body. Since even balanced standing is a state of dynamic change (involving sensory input and neuromuscular response), the power of the Equilibrate System stems from analysis of energy and motion over time. Metrics from the upper and lower body are measured, analyzed, and combined for comprehensive scores of sway, dynamic alignment, and overall balance.
Balance Engineering also identified inferior aspects of currently available products in the market, particularly in the area of reliability and operational friendliness (for both the patient and the operator). Keeping these deficiencies in mind, during the design and development of Equilibrate an increased emphasis was placed on ease-of-use and durability. The results of these important considerations are reflected in the subject’s simple and straightforward interaction with Equilibrate, and an easily navigable, step by-step interface for the operator. Web-integrated design not only provides up-to-the minute software and therapy library updates, but data from Equilibrate users (with patient identity protection) contribute to a database that aid in the identification of superior modes of diagnosis and rehabilitation.
And so much more… please see Equilibrate product specifications.