scholarly journals Method for Estimating Temporal Gait Parameters Concerning Bilateral Lower Limbs of Healthy Subjects Using a Single In-Shoe Motion Sensor through a Gait Event Detection Approach

Sensors ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 351
Author(s):  
Chenhui Huang ◽  
Kenichiro Fukushi ◽  
Zhenwei Wang ◽  
Fumiyuki Nihey ◽  
Hiroshi Kajitani ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Event Detection ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Estimation Method ◽  
Activity Monitoring ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Motion Sensors ◽  
Detection Approach ◽  
Gait Parameters ◽  
Monitoring Applications

To expand the potential use of in-shoe motion sensors (IMSs) in daily healthcare or activity monitoring applications for healthy subjects, we propose a real-time temporal estimation method for gait parameters concerning bilateral lower limbs (GPBLLs) that uses a single IMS and is based on a gait event detection approach. To validate the established methods, data from 26 participants recorded by an IMS and a reference 3D motion analysis system were compared. The agreement between the proposed method and the reference system was evaluated by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The results showed that, by averaging over five continuous effective strides, all time parameters achieved precisions of no more than 30 ms and agreement at the “excellent” level, and the symmetry indexes of the stride time and stance phase time achieved precisions of 1.0% and 3.0%, respectively, and agreement at the “good” level. These results suggest our method is effective and shows promise for wide use in many daily healthcare or activity monitoring applications for healthy subjects.

scholarly journals Gait Symmetry Analysis in Patients after Treatment of Pilon Fractures by the Ilizarov Method

Symmetry ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 349 ◽  
Author(s):  
Łukasz Pawik ◽  
Paweł Wietecki ◽  
Artur Leśkow ◽  
Andżelika Pajchert Kozłowska ◽  
Sławomir Żarek ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lower Limb ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Ilizarov Method ◽  
Study Group ◽  
Stride Time ◽  
Gait Symmetry ◽  
Gait Parameters ◽  
Pilon Fractures

The aim of this study was to comprehensively assess the gait parameters in patients who had undergone treatment of pilon fractures by the Ilizarov method. We analyzed gait parameters in patients who had undergone treatment for pilon fractures by the Ilizarov method; 20 patients aged 47.0 years (25.2–78.6) were included in the study. The control group consisted of 32 healthy volunteers. Gait examination was performed using the pedobarographic platform. Statistically significant differences in the following gait parameters: maximum forefoot force (%), step length (cm), and step time (s) were found between the study group and the control group, between the nonoperated leg, and both the operated leg and the dominant limb. Statistically significant differences in the study group between the treated lower limb and the healthy lower limb were only observed in the case of the maximum forefoot force parameter (%). Healthy subjects from the control group obtained significantly higher values during locomotion for stride time, cadence step, and velocity than the patients, with stride time being statistically significantly shorter and the velocity and the cadence step higher. We observed symmetry in the gait parameters after treating pilon fractures by the Ilizarov method. This method of stabilization allows the restoration of gait parameters, with results similar to those obtained after the treatment of other motor organ pathologies described in the literature, although different from those observed in healthy subjects. In particular, the biomechanics of the lower limbs remain disturbed.

scholarly journals Accuracy and Repeatability of Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters Measured with an Inertial Measurement Unit

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (9) ◽  
pp. 1804
Author(s):  
Jorge Posada-Ordax ◽  
Julia Cosin-Matamoros ◽  
Marta Elena Losa-Iglesias ◽  
Ricardo Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo ◽  
Laura Esteban-Gonzalo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Inertial Measurement Unit ◽  
Measurement Unit ◽  
Inertial Measurement Units ◽  
Inertial Measurement ◽  
High Speeds ◽  
Controlled Conditions ◽  
Gait Parameters ◽  
Measurement Units ◽  
Accuracy And Repeatability

In recent years, interest in finding alternatives for the evaluation of mobility has increased. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) stand out for their portability, size, and low price. The objective of this study was to examine the accuracy and repeatability of a commercially available IMU under controlled conditions in healthy subjects. A total of 36 subjects, including 17 males and 19 females were analyzed with a Wiva Science IMU in a corridor test while walking for 10 m and in a threadmill at 1.6 km/h, 2.4 km/h, 3.2 km/h, 4 km/h, and 4.8 km/h for one minute. We found no difference when we compared the variables at 4 km/h and 4.8 km/h. However, we found greater differences and errors at 1.6 km/h, 2.4 km/h and 3.2 km/h, and the latter one (1.6 km/h) generated more error. The main conclusion is that the Wiva Science IMU is reliable at high speeds but loses reliability at low speeds.

scholarly journals Reproducibility of Skin Temperature Response after Cold Stress Test Using the Game Ready System: Preliminary Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (16) ◽  
pp. 8295
Author(s):  
Jose Ignacio Priego-Quesada ◽  
Alexis Gandia-Soriano ◽  
Maria Teresa Pellicer-Chenoll ◽  
Ignacio Catalá-Vilaplana ◽  
Jose Luis Bermejo-Ruiz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cold Stress ◽  
Skin Temperature ◽  
Stress Test ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Temperature Response ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Good Reproducibility ◽  
Preliminary Study ◽  
Logarithmic Equation ◽  
Cold Stress Test

The objective of this preliminary study was to determine the reproducibility of lower limbs skin temperature after cold stress test using the Game Ready system. Skin temperature of fourteen participants was measured before and after cold stress test using the Game Ready system and it was repeated the protocol in four times: at 9:00, at 11:00, at 19:00, and at 9:00 h of the posterior day. To assess skin temperature recovery after cold stress test, a logarithmic equation for each region was calculated, and constant (β0) and slope (β1) coefficients were obtained. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error (SE), and within-subject coefficient of variation (CV) were determined. No differences were observed between measurement times in any of the regions for the logarithmic coefficients (p > 0.38). Anterior thigh (β0 ICC 0.33–0.47; β1 ICC 0.31–0.43) and posterior knee (β0 ICC 0.42–0.58; β1 ICC 0.28–0.57) were the regions with the lower ICCs, and the other regions presented values with a fair and good reproducibility (ICC > 0.41). Posterior leg was the region with the better reproducibility (β0 ICC 0.68–0.78; β1 ICC 0.59–0.74; SE 3–4%; within-subject CV 7–12%). In conclusion, cold stress test using Game Ready system showed a fair and good reproducibility, especially when the posterior leg was the region assessed.

scholarly journals Biomechanical analysis of an unpowered hip flexion orthosis on individuals with and without multiple sclerosis

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ross M. Neuman ◽  
Staci M. Shearin ◽  
Karen J. McCain ◽  
Nicholas P. Fey
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Muscle Activity ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Muscle Activation ◽  
Assistive Technologies ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Biomechanical Analysis ◽  
Foot Drop ◽  
Plantar Flexors ◽  
Hip Flexion

Abstract Background Gait impairment is a common complication of multiple sclerosis (MS). Gait limitations such as limited hip flexion, foot drop, and knee hyperextension often require external devices like crutches, canes, and orthoses. The effects of mobility-assistive technologies (MATs) prescribed to people with MS are not well understood, and current devices do not cater to the specific needs of these individuals. To address this, a passive unilateral hip flexion-assisting orthosis (HFO) was developed that uses resistance bands spanning the hip joint to redirect energy in the gait cycle. The purpose of this study was to investigate the short-term effects of the HFO on gait mechanics and muscle activation for people with and without MS. We hypothesized that (1) hip flexion would increase in the limb wearing the device, and (2) that muscle activity would increase in hip extensors, and decrease in hip flexors and plantar flexors. Methods Five healthy subjects and five subjects with MS walked for minute-long sessions with the device using three different levels of band stiffness. We analyzed peak hip flexion and extension angles, lower limb joint work, and muscle activity in eight muscles on the lower limbs and trunk. Single-subjects analysis was used due to inter-subject variability. Results For subjects with MS, the HFO caused an increase in peak hip flexion angle and a decrease in peak hip extension angle, confirming our first hypothesis. Healthy subjects showed less pronounced kinematic changes when using the device. Power generated at the hip was increased in most subjects while using the HFO. The second hypothesis was not confirmed, as muscle activity showed inconsistent results, however several subjects demonstrated increased hip extensor and trunk muscle activity with the HFO. Conclusions This exploratory study showed that the HFO was well-tolerated by healthy subjects and subjects with MS, and that it promoted more normative kinematics at the hip for those with MS. Future studies with longer exposure to the HFO and personalized assistance parameters are needed to understand the efficacy of the HFO for mobility assistance and rehabilitation for people with MS.

To What Extent Does Not Wearing Shoes Affect the Local Dynamic Stability of Walking?: Effect Size and Intrasession Repeatability

2014 ◽  
Vol 30 (2) ◽  
pp. 305-309 ◽  
Author(s):  
Philippe Terrier ◽  
Fabienne Reynard
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Stability ◽  
Effect Size ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Clinical Findings ◽  
Local Dynamic ◽  
Gait Stability ◽  
Local Dynamic Stability ◽  
Gait Parameters ◽  
Absolute Agreement ◽  
The Stability

Local dynamic stability (stability) quantifies how a system responds to small perturbations. Several experimental and clinical findings have highlighted the association between gait stability and fall risk. Walking without shoes is known to slightly modify gait parameters. Barefoot walking may cause unusual sensory feedback to individuals accustomed to shod walking, and this may affect stability. The objective was therefore to compare the stability of shod and barefoot walking in healthy individuals and to analyze the intrasession repeatability. Forty participants traversed a 70 m indoor corridor wearing normal shoes in one trial and walking barefoot in a second trial. Trunk accelerations were recorded with a 3D-accelerometer attached to the lower back. The stability was computed using the finite-time maximal Lyapunov exponent method. Absolute agreement between the forward and backward paths was estimated with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Barefoot walking did not significantly modify the stability as compared with shod walking (average standardized effect size: +0.11). The intrasession repeatability was high (ICC: 0.73–0.81) and slightly higher in barefoot walking condition (ICC: 0.81–0.87). Therefore, it seems that barefoot walking can be used to evaluate stability without introducing a bias as compared with shod walking, and with a sufficient reliability.

scholarly journals Short-term Gait Parameters Change in Mild Spastic Cerebral Palsy after Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy Guided by Our Newly-Modified Protocol

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
wenbin jiang ◽  
Shuyun Jiang ◽  
Yan Yu ◽  
Qijia Zhan ◽  
Min Wei ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cerebral Palsy ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Spastic Cerebral Palsy ◽  
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Term Outcome ◽  
Long Term Outcome ◽  
Dorsal Rhizotomy ◽  
Gait Parameters

Abstract Background Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) guided by our modified protocol can decrease spasticity in certain muscles. This study aimed to investigate gait parameters changes in cerebral palsy (CP) with focal spasticity after SDR in short-term follow-up. Methods CP classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level Ⅰ and Ⅱ who underwent SDR were included. Changes of spasticity, gait parameters and gait deviation index (GDI) were retrospectively reviewed. Results This study contained 26 individuals with 44 affected and 8 intact lower limbs (4 monoplegia, 4 hemiplegia and 18 diplegia). Mean age was 5.7 ± 1.9 years-old and follow-up duration was 9.9 ± 6.6 months. After SDR, average spasticity of 108 target muscles decreased from 2.9 ± 0.8 to 1.8 ± 0.6 in Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Kinematic curves changed after the surgery in sagittal and transverse plane in affected sides, further investigation showed improvements in ankle and knee. No changes were found in temporal-spatial parameters except decrease in cadence in affected sides. GDI improved significantly in affected limbs. Conclusion In short-term follow up, the new-protocol-guiding SDR can lower focal spasticity, GA showed improvements in kinematic parameters and GDI. Longer follow-up duration is needed to clarify the long-term outcome.

scholarly journals A Novel Noninvasive Method for Measuring Fatigability of the Quadriceps Muscle in Noncooperating Healthy Subjects

2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jesper B. Poulsen ◽  
Martin H. Rose ◽  
Kirsten Møller ◽  
Anders Perner ◽  
Bente R. Jensen
Keyword(s):  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Functional Limitations ◽  
Regression Line ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Peak Torque ◽  
Quadriceps Muscle ◽  
Fatigue Index ◽  
Minimum Detectable Change ◽  
Torque Values ◽  
Index Ratio

Background. Critical illness is associated with muscle weakness leading to long-term functional limitations.Objectives. To assess the reliability of a novel method for evaluating fatigability of the quadriceps muscle in noncooperating healthy subjects.Methods. On two occasions, separated by seven days, nonvoluntary isometric contractions (twitch and tetanic) of the quadriceps femoris muscle evoked by transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation were recorded in twelve healthy adults. For tetanic contractions, the Fatigue Index (ratio of peak torque values) and the slope of the regression line of peak torque values were primary outcome measures. For twitch contractions, maximum peak torque and rise time were calculated. Relative (intraclass correlation, ICC3.1) and absolute (standard error of measurement, SEM) reliability were assessed and minimum detectable change was calculated using a 95% confidence interval (MDC95%).Results. The Fatigue Index (ICC3.1, 0.84; MDC95%, 0.12) and the slope of the regression line (ICC3.1, 0.99; MDC95%, 0.03) showed substantial relative and absolute reliability during the first 15 and 30 contractions, respectively.Conclusion. This method for assessing fatigability of the quadriceps muscle produces reliable results in healthy subjects and may provide valuable data on quantitative changes in muscle working capacity and treatment effects in patients who are incapable of producing voluntary muscle contractions.

Reliability of the “Clinical Tibiofibular Line” Technique for Open Syndesmosis Reduction Assessment

2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (6) ◽  
pp. 516-521
Author(s):  
Anthony A. Pollizzi ◽  
Daniel C. Herman ◽  
Gregory C. Berlet ◽  
Christopher W. Reb
Keyword(s):  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Interobserver Reliability ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Diagnostic Study ◽  
Radiographic Assessment ◽  
Open Technique ◽  
Safe Alternative ◽  
Intraoperative Computed Tomography ◽  
Measurement Series

Background: When intraoperative computed tomography (CT) is unavailable, open syndesmosis assessment is a universally available, safe alternative that is more accurate than radiographic assessment. However, it has a documented malreduction rate of up to 16%. This may be improved upon with a validated technique for assessing the accuracy of open syndesmosis reductions. The “tibiofibular line” (TFL) is a CT-based technique found to be sensitive for malreduction. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of adapting the CT-TFL method into a reliable intraoperative open technique by refining the methodology of previous work exploring the clinical TFL technique. Methods: Three observers were instructed to clinically simulate the TFL on cadaveric lower limbs. For each specimen, observers repeated and recorded 3 clinical TFL measurements for each of 4 measurement series representing different degrees of fibula reduction. Intraclass correlation was used to assess intra- and interobserver reliabilities. Results: Mean intraobserver reliability was .88. Mean interobserver reliability was .75. Both intra- and interobserver reliabilities were highest for anatomic syndesmosis reduction. Conclusion: The findings of excellent to near perfect intraobserver and good to excellent interobserver reliability indicate the feasibility of translating the CT-TFL into a reliable open technique. Levels of Evidence: Level III: Diagnostic study

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document