Potential Role of Biofeedback Visual Training in High-Speed Motorbike Drivers

Abstract

Purpose

In several sports, appropriate training strategies remain a challenge for athletes and coaches, with the goal of improving performance. Extensive research has proposed several technical tools for obtaining parametric evaluations before competition in real life. This study aimed to assess whether some retinal performances might be improved using psychophysical techniques in health professionals involved in motorcycle sports (FIM MotoE).

Methods

Two MotoE drivers were screened at baseline using complete ophthalmological examinations and evaluation of retinal reaction times, followed by a biofeedback training program. After 4 months of training, the subjects underwent a control visit using the same protocol as the baseline.

Results

Central reaction time was shorter for 75% of drivers, with a consistent reduction (mean value of 20%). The peripheral reaction time showed an increasing trend after visual training. In both drivers, fixation stability improved dramatically (in 30% increments).

Conclusion

The potential role of advanced technology was applied to high-speed drivers. Our results may be due to an attentional shift from the peripheral retina to the central retina during training. In our opinion, training potentiates the most useful pathways at the expense of less involved retinal and cortical areas, thus improving driving abilities and safety.

Keywords:

• microperimetry
• fixation
• biofeedback
• motorcycle
• high-speed drivers

Patient Involvement

Participants were involved in the conceptualization phase, informing them of all measures that were taken and which aims were directed. Both drivers provided written informed consent to participate in this study.

Data Sharing Statement

Raw data were generated at the Nidek Technologies Center, Padua, Italy. The derived data supporting the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, EMV, upon request.

Ethical Approval Information

University Sapienza of Rome Department of Sense Organs session of February 7, 2021, approval n° 7/21.

Author Contributions

All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

C.T. and M.C. are employees of Nidek Technologies Inc., and C.C. is a consultant of the SIFI group. The authors report no other conflicts of interest in this work.

Additional information

Funding

There is no funding to report.