Work

Vibrotactile stimulation on the upper back requires stronger vibration during goal-directed reaching but does not impede reaching performance

Year: 2026

Type: preprint

Abstract: Vibrotactile stimulation is a promising method of biofeedback, with potential applications for ergonomic posture and balance, rehabilitation, and motor learning. These applications require balancing tactile perception with motor performance and cognitive workload. In this study, participants performed a detection task, a reaching task, and a concurrent reach-and-detect task, with vibrotactile signals delivered on the hand or upper back. Sensitivity to stimuli, motor performance, and cognitive workload were compared for each task. Sensitivity was suppressed during movement, but this suppression was greater on hand compared to the upper back. Movement time was slowed by vibration on the hand but not the upper back. Mental workload and task complexity increased for the reach-and-detect task compared to the individual tasks. We conclude that vibrotactile feedback devices worn on the upper back do not impede motor performance, with only minor tactile suppression. This could be overcome by presenting highly salient or personalized feedback. Practitioner Summary This study evaluated the use of a wearable vibrotactile feedback device during a concurrent reaching task. Concurrent reaching reduced feedback detection, but this reduction was smaller when the upper back was vibrated compared to the hand, with less disruption of reaching performance. Concurrent reaching and detection was judged to be more mentally demanding than either task alone. Vibrotactile feedback devices can be used effectively on the upper back, but users should be aware of mental fatigue.

Source: bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)

DOI: 10.64898/2026.10.13.755060