Document Type

Grant

Project Title

Evaluating the Accuracy of Baseline SCAT6 mBESS Scores Compared to IMU-Derived Postural Stability Metrics in Division-II Collegiate Athletes

Principal Investigator

Brittney Hardin

Publication Date

2027

College or Department

School of Health and Human Performance

Award Date Range

10/8/25-10/14/26

Award Amount

4,948.00

Abstract

Postural control deficits are a common symptom of sports-related concussions (SRC). While SRC assessments are multifaceted, the Modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS) remains a widely used clinical tool for identifying postural impairments in symptomatic individuals. The mBESS test is embedded within the 2023 6th edition Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT6), which is routinely administered by certified athletic trainers to observe errors in static postural stability both pre-and post-concussion. Recent research suggest that inertial measurement units (IMUs) can enhance the diagnostic accuracy of postural stability assessments by providing objective, quantifiable data. However, existing studies have primarily focused on post-concussion comparisons and have not adequately explored the relationship between baseline mBESS scores and IMU-derived metrics. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the accuracy of baseline observer-rated SCAT6 mBESS scores by comparing them with IMU-derived measurements of static postural stability while performing the mBess test. Specifically, this study will recruit student-athletes from Georgia College & State University (GC&SU) to participate in baseline concussion testing using these two measurements. Findings from this study will provide valuable insights into the integration of wearable technology to enhance the accuracy and consistency of mBESS assessments. This could lead to improved baseline evaluations and more reliable post-concussion comparisons, ultimately supporting better clinical decision-making for athletic trainers.

Download

Share

COinS