biodex 950-440 - 3. Clinical Considerations; General Clinical Considerations

18 Biodex Medical Systems, Inc. © 2017
3. Clinical Considerations
Prior to allowing any patient to use this device, make certain to read and comprehend this
entire manual. Ensure that you are completely familiar with all aspects of adjustment, training
and testing, as well as patient history. Be sure to adhere to the following clinical guidelines at
all times when using this system.
NOTE: Never allow a patient to use the Balance System while unsupervised.
General Clinical Considerations
All users should have a verbal understanding of the Balance System prior to stepping on the
device.
To ensure patient safety, begin each session with the balance platform in the ‘locked’ or static
position.
NOTE: The Balance System automatically places the platform in the locked position when the
unit is turned ON, or after a time period of three minutes when the system is not in use.
Adjust support rail and biofeedback display for patient comfort and safety.
When dealing with post-operative patients, ensure they possess adequate muscular control to
stabilize the joint prior to placing them on the foot platform. Inadequate muscular control could
lead to increased joint translation.
When patients are working with their eyes closed, ensure that a clinician is ready to assist in
case of loss of balance.
Since the entire lower extremity is required to work to maintain good balance, ensure that
supporting structures above and below the joint are adequately strengthened prior to beginning
rehabilitation on this device.
For optimal operation, ensure the patient is standing in the center of the platform.
Patients should progress from ‘hands-on’ to ‘hands-off’ the support handle. This will ensure
that new or unstable patients have an adequate understanding of the Balance System and will
help protect the patient against sudden or unexpected movement of the platform.
Position the display enabling the patient to look straight at it. This will help ensure good
posture during the test or exercise session.
There is a patient learning curve that must be considered when testing with this device. Clinical
research suggests three trials be performed prior to testing. For dynamic balance testing, the
default settings are preselected with three trials per side. This should assist with the patient’s
familiarization with the device and result in better data averaging.