Effects of visual field immersion and sub-threshold plantar vibration on balance

Visual field immersion and plantar vibration effects on balance were examined. Healthy adults stood quietly in a 3-wall immersive virtual environment (VE) and with a 3DTV for four trials while: barefoot, barefoot on foam, and wearing shoes on foam with and without sub-threshold plantar vibration. RMS of center of pressure velocity were significantly larger in VE than 3DTV (p<0.0002). Responses on foam in the VE were larger than no foam (p<0.001) or foam with 3DTV (p<0.003). Vibration reduced RMS values in the VE (p<0.02) but not with 3DTV. Immersive VE destabilizes more than 3DTV but plantar vibration improves balance.