Nate Twedt, Head Athletic Trainer at Valparaiso University shared how they were able to bring objective assessments to their athletes using the MobileMat™ with SportsAT™ software. 

Searching for an Objective Balance System

The NCAA requires universities to incorporate balance testing into their concussion assessment protocols.  At Valparaiso University, they have a small staff of athletic trainers and graduate assistants to treat all the athletes so it was essential they find an efficient solution.  Another critical factor was consistent balance testing. Lack of reproducibility and consistency between testers is a commonly known issue with the BESS (Balance Error Scoring System- a commonly used test for concussion assessments), so Nate was unsure if that was the best type of test to implement.  He needed a solution that would address these issues. 

More than a Concussion Assessment Tool

Along came the MobileMat with SportsAT software, which offers an automated BESS test, as well additional balance assessment capabilities and easy comparisons for pre/post rehabilitation.  It not only would provide a solution to this lack of objective data but would save them time!

Prior to implementing the BESS test using the MobileMat, baseline testing with athletes could take up to 10 minutes per athlete between set up and the actual testing.  Now using the MobileMat, they are able to get it down to under 5 minutes per athlete. Plus Twedt says he feels confident he’s getting objective information and testing each of the players consistently.

Educating Athletes with Visual Feedback

For the athletic training department at Valparaiso the benefits of MobileMat system go beyond concussion assessments.  Athletes post-surgery are tested on the mat and asked to perform functional tasks, such as squats, and their weight distribution between sides is evaluated. Nate commented the visual display of the system is great to provide feedback to the athlete because they often don’t even realize they are favoring one side over another.  Those athletes post-surgery use the balance compass portion of the software to build up strength and work on any asymmetries.  

Having a portable system that provides objective and consistent data has really changed the way return-to-play decisions are made at the University.  The Athletic Trainers feel good that they have a tool to support their rehabilitation decisions with the athletes. 

To learn more about the full capabilities of the SportAT software click here.

About Nate Twedt

Nate Twedt is the Head Athletic Trainer at Valparaiso University. He is directly responsible for injury treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation for the Valparaiso football and swimming programs. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Iowa in exercise science and a Master’s Degree in Sports Administration from South Dakota State.  He is an active member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association and the College Athletic Trainers’ Society.