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Jin S, An CH, Jeong HY, Choi W, Hong SW, Song HK, Kim HS, Lee YK, Kang HJ, Ahn DY, Yang HE. Importance of Bilateral Hip Assessments in Unilateral Lower-Limb Amputees: A Retrospective Review Involving Older Veterans. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4033. [PMID: 39064073 PMCID: PMC11277249 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13144033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) discordance and its implications in veterans with unilateral lower-limb amputation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive hip assessments. Methods: Data were collected from 84 male veterans, and BMD was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine, intact hip, and amputated hip. Results: The T-scores for the lumbar spine, intact hip, and amputated hip were -0.27 ± 1.69, -0.25 ± 1.20, and -1.07 ± 1.33, respectively. Osteoporosis and osteopenia were present in 19% and 34.6% of patients, respectively. Osteopenia and osteoporosis were most prevalent in the hips on the amputated side (32.1% and 13.1%, respectively), followed by the lumbar spines (22.6% and 8.3%) and the hips on the intact side (17.9% and 2.4%). BMD discordance between the lumbar spine and hip was found in 47.6% of participants, while discordance between both hips was observed in 39.3%. Transfemoral amputees had significantly lower BMD at the amputated hip compared to transtibial amputees (-2.38 ± 1.72 vs. -0.87 ± 1.16, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Veterans with unilateral lower-limb amputation exhibit a high prevalence of osteoporosis and significant BMD discordance, particularly between both hips. These findings underscore the necessity for bilateral hip assessments to ensure the accurate diagnosis and effective management of osteoporosis in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Jin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Chi Hwan An
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Yong Jeong
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Woohwa Choi
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Won Hong
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Ki Song
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Sung Kim
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Kyung Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jung Kang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-young Ahn
- Prosthetic and Orthotic Center, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
| | - Hea-Eun Yang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea
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De Bartolo D, Borhanazad M, Goudriaan M, Bekius A, Zandvoort CS, Buizer AI, Morelli D, Assenza C, Vermeulen RJ, Martens BHM, Iosa M, Dominici N. Exploring harmonic walking development in children with unilateral cerebral palsy and typically developing toddlers: Insights from walking experience. Hum Mov Sci 2024; 95:103218. [PMID: 38643727 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2024.103218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
This longitudinal study investigated the impact of the first independent steps on harmonic gait development in unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) and typically developing (TD) children. We analysed the gait ratio values (GR) by comparing the duration of stride/stance, stance/swing and swing/double support phases. Our investigation focused on identifying a potential trend towards the golden ratio value of 1.618, which has been observed in the locomotion of healthy adults as a characteristic of harmonic walking. Locomotor ability was assessed in both groups at different developmental stages: before and after the emergence of independent walking. Results revealed that an exponential fit was observed only after the first unsupported steps were taken. TD children achieved harmonic walking within a relatively short period (approximately one month) compared to children with CP, who took about seven months to develop harmonic walking. Converging values for stride/stance and stance/swing gait ratios, averaged on the two legs, closely approached the golden ratio in TD children (R2 = 0.9) with no difference in the analysis of the left vs right leg separately. In contrast, children with CP exhibited a trend for stride/stance and stance/swing (R2 = 0.7), with distinct trends observed for the most affected leg which did not reach the golden ratio value for the stride/stance ratio (GR = 1.5), while the least affected leg exceeded it (GR = 1.7). On the contrary, the opposite trend was observed for the stance/swing ratio. These findings indicate an overall harmonic walking in children with CP despite the presence of asymmetry between the two legs. These results underscore the crucial role of the first independent steps in the progressive development of harmonic gait over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela De Bartolo
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Marzieh Borhanazad
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marije Goudriaan
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annike Bekius
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Coen S Zandvoort
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annemieke I Buizer
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Rehabilitation & Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Daniela Morelli
- Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Assenza
- Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - R Jeroen Vermeulen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Brian H M Martens
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marco Iosa
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Nadia Dominici
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Kooiman V, van der Cruijsen J, Leijendekkers R, Verdonschot N, Solis-Escalante T, Weerdesteyn V. The influence of prosthetic suspension on gait and cortical modulations is persons with a transfemoral amputation: socket-suspended versus bone-anchored prosthesis. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2024; 21:35. [PMID: 38454427 PMCID: PMC10921721 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-024-01331-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with a transfemoral amputation (TFA) often experience difficulties in daily-life ambulation, including an asymmetrical and less stable gait pattern and a greater cognitive demand of walking. However, it remains unclear whether this is effected by the prosthetic suspension, as eliminating the non-rigid prosthetic connection may influence stability and cortical activity during walking. Spatiotemporal and stability-related gait parameters, as well as cortical activity during walking, were evaluated between highly active individuals (MFC-level K3-4) with a TFA and able-bodied (AB) persons, and between persons with a bone-anchored prosthesis (BAP) and those with a socket-suspended prosthesis (SSP). METHODS 18 AB persons and 20 persons with a unilateral TFA (10 BAP-users, 10 SSP-users) walked on a treadmill at their preferred speed. Spatiotemporal and margin of stability parameters were extracted from three-dimensional movement recordings. In addition, 126-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded. Brain-related activity from several cortical areas was isolated using independent component analysis. Source-level data were divided into gait cycles and subjected to time-frequency analysis to determine gait-cycle dependent modulations of cortical activity. RESULTS Persons with TFA walked with smaller and wider steps and with greater variability in mediolateral foot placement than AB subjects; no significant differences were found between BAP- and SSP-users. The EEG analysis yielded four cortical clusters in frontal, central (both hemispheres), and parietal areas. No statistically significant between-group differences were found in the mean power over the entire gait cycle. The event-related spectral perturbation maps revealed differences in power modulations (theta, alpha, and beta bands) between TFA and AB groups, and between BAP- and SSP-users, with largest differences observed around heel strike of either leg. CONCLUSIONS The anticipated differences in gait parameters in persons with TFA were confirmed, however no significant effect of the fixed suspension of a BAP was found. The preliminary EEG findings may indicate more active monitoring and control of stability in persons with TFA, which appeared to be timed differently in SSP than in BAP-users. Future studies may focus on walking tasks that challenge stability to further investigate differences related to prosthetic suspension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Kooiman
- Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Joris van der Cruijsen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud Leijendekkers
- Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nico Verdonschot
- Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Teodoro Solis-Escalante
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Vivian Weerdesteyn
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Sint Maartenskliniek, Research & Rehabilitation, P.O. Box 9011, 6500 GM, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Johansson R, Jensen L, Barnett CT, Rusaw DF. Quantitative methods used to evaluate balance, postural control, and the fear of falling in lower limb prosthesis users: A systematic review. Prosthet Orthot Int 2023; 47:586-598. [PMID: 37318276 DOI: 10.1097/pxr.0000000000000250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Problems with balance, postural control, and fear of falling are highly prevalent in lower limb prosthesis users, with much research conducted to understand these issues. The variety of tools used to assess these concepts presents a challenge when interpreting research outcomes. This systematic review aimed to provide a synthesis of quantifiable methods used in the evaluation of balance, postural control, and fear of falling in lower limb prosthesis users with an amputation level at or proximal to the ankle joint. A systematic search was conducted in CINAHL, Medline, AMED, Cochrane, AgeLine, Scopus, Web of Science, Proquest, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, and PubPsych databases followed by additional manual searching via reference lists in the reviewed articles databases. Included articles used quantitative measure of balance or postural control as one of the dependent variables, lower limb prosthesis users as a sample group, and were published in a peer-reviewed journal in English. Relevant assessment questions were created by the investigators to rate the assessment methods used in the individual studies. Descriptive and summary statistics are used to synthesize the results. The search yielded (n = 187) articles assessing balance or postural control (n = 5487 persons in total) and (n = 66) articles assessing fear of falling or balance confidence (n = 7325 persons in total). The most used test to measure balance was the Berg Balance Scale and the most used test to measure fear of falling was the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale. A large number of studies did not present if the chosen methods were valid and reliable for the lower limb prosthesis users. Among study limitations, small sample size was common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Johansson
- School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Louise Jensen
- School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
- Southern Älvsborg Hospital, Borås, Sweden
| | - Cleveland T Barnett
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David F Rusaw
- School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
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Kooiman VGM, van Staveren ES, Leijendekkers RA, Buurke JH, Verdonschot N, Prinsen EC, Weerdesteyn V. Testing and evaluation of lower limb prosthesis prototypes in people with a transfemoral amputation: a scoping review on research protocols. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:1. [PMID: 36635703 PMCID: PMC9835280 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01125-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When developing new lower limb prostheses, prototypes are tested to obtain insights into the performance. However, large variations between research protocols may complicate establishing the potential added value of newly developed prototypes over other prostheses. OBJECTIVE This review aims at identifying participant characteristics, research protocols, reference values, aims, and corresponding outcome measures used during prosthesis prototype testing on people with a transfemoral amputation. METHODS A systematic search was done on PubMed and Scopus from 2000 to December 2020. Articles were included if testing was done on adults with transfemoral or knee disarticulation amputation; testing involved walking with a non-commercially available prototype leg prosthesis consisting of at least a knee component; and included evaluations of the participants' functioning with the prosthesis prototype. RESULTS From the initial search of 2027 articles, 48 articles were included in this review. 20 studies were single-subject studies and 4 studies included a cohort of 10 or more persons with a transfemoral amputation. Only 5 articles reported all the pre-defined participant characteristics that were deemed relevant. The familiarization time with the prosthesis prototype prior to testing ranged from 5 to 10 min to 3 months; in 25% of the articles did not mention the extent of the familiarization period. Mobility was most often mentioned as the development or testing aim. A total of 270 outcome measures were identified, kinetic/kinematic gait parameters were most often reported. The majority of outcome measures corresponded to the mobility aim. For 48% of the stated development aims and 4% of the testing aims, no corresponding outcome measure could be assigned. Results indicated large inconsistencies in research protocols and outcome measures used to validate pre-determined aims. CONCLUSIONS The large variation in prosthesis prototype testing and reporting calls for the development of a core set of reported participant characteristics, testing protocols, and specific and well-founded outcome measures, tailored to the various aims and development phases. The use of such a core set can give greater insights into progress of developments and determine which developments have additional benefits over the state-of-the-art. This review may contribute as initial input towards the development of such a core set.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera G M Kooiman
- Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Rehabilitation, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Eline S van Staveren
- Roessingh Research and Development, PO Box 310, 7500 AH, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Leijendekkers
- Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H Buurke
- Roessingh Research and Development, PO Box 310, 7500 AH, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Roessingh Center for Rehabilitation, Postbus 310, 7500 AH, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Nico Verdonschot
- Orthopedic Research Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Erik C Prinsen
- Roessingh Research and Development, PO Box 310, 7500 AH, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Vivian Weerdesteyn
- Department of Rehabilitation, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Sint Maartenskliniek, Research & Rehabilitation, P.O. Box 9011, 6500 GM, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Maitland ME, Allyn KJ, Ficanha EM, Colvin JM, Wernke MM. The effect of single and multiple split-toe designs on cross-slope adaptability of prosthetic feet: a finite element simulation study. JOURNAL OF PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS : JPO 2023; 35:e24-e29. [PMID: 36873799 PMCID: PMC9983786 DOI: 10.1097/jpo.0000000000000427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction
During activities of daily living, the foot-to-ground contact orientation changes in the frontal plane. The adaptability of a prosthetic foot in the frontal plane may improve functional mobility, comfort, and safety. Current prosthetic feet may or may not have a longitudinal split in the toe portion of the foot. The single-split (two-toe) prosthetic foot has been recommended for adaptability on uneven ground compared with feet without longitudinal splits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of single and multiple split-toe cantilever spring designs of prosthetic feet on cross-slopes using finite element simulation.
Materials and Methods
Model construction (material data, geometry, and mesh) and simulations were performed using Ansys LS Dyna. A virtual mass of 75 kg, representing body mass, was fixed to the proximal pylon. Foot variations with one to six toes were created by modifying the base geometry with zero to five splits. Walking surfaces that were either flat or a 15-degree cross-slope was virtually fixed in space. The simulation was started at midstance with the pylon in a vertical position and was continued for 0.2 seconds. An initial velocity of 1 m/s was applied to the proximal mass. Lateral deviation, and vertical displacement and mediolateral contact forces of the simulated body mass were calculated. Von Mises stresses, indicating the potential for material failure, were evaluated.
Results
On level ground, after 0.2-second simulation, feet were comparable in outcomes. On a 15-degree cross-slope, lateral deviation of the body mass decreased with increasing splits from 15.5 mm with no splits to 6.9 mm with the five-split variation. Consistent with this finding, maximal and average forces at the pylon-body mass connection also decreased with increasing splits. Von Mises stress values increased at the proximal toes with increasing splits consistent with narrowing of each toe.
Discussion and Conclusions
The current study showed that the benefit of increasing the number of toes was most significant with the first split and diminishing returns as the number of splits increased beyond three. Adaptability of split-toe variations may have benefits beyond cross-slopes because there are many instances during activities of daily living where the foot-to-ground angle may change. These findings should be tested using other research methods such as biomechanical studies of multiple split-toe prosthetic feet, and if these results are supported, clinical trials may be warranted.
Clinical Relevance
This study supports the use of split-toe prosthetic feet for people who want more frontal plane adaptability during gait or who have lateral pressures at the socket. The study predicts that prosthetic feet with more than one split could provide more adaptability and should be explored for clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murray E. Maitland
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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De Marchis C, Ranaldi S, Varrecchia T, Serrao M, Castiglia SF, Tatarelli A, Ranavolo A, Draicchio F, Lacquaniti F, Conforto S. Characterizing the Gait of People With Different Types of Amputation and Prosthetic Components Through Multimodal Measurements: A Methodological Perspective. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 3:804746. [PMID: 36189078 PMCID: PMC9397865 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.804746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Prosthetic gait implies the use of compensatory motor strategies, including alterations in gait biomechanics and adaptations in the neural control mechanisms adopted by the central nervous system. Despite the constant technological advancements in prostheses design that led to a reduction in compensatory movements and an increased acceptance by the users, a deep comprehension of the numerous factors that influence prosthetic gait is still needed. The quantitative prosthetic gait analysis is an essential step in the development of new and ergonomic devices and to optimize the rehabilitation therapies. Nevertheless, the assessment of prosthetic gait is still carried out by a heterogeneous variety of methodologies, and this limits the comparison of results from different studies, complicating the definition of shared and well-accepted guidelines among clinicians, therapists, physicians, and engineers. This perspective article starts from the results of a project funded by the Italian Worker's Compensation Authority (INAIL) that led to the generation of an extended dataset of measurements involving kinematic, kinetic, and electrophysiological recordings in subjects with different types of amputation and prosthetic components. By encompassing different studies published along the project activities, we discuss the specific information that can be extracted by different kinds of measurements, and we here provide a methodological perspective related to multimodal prosthetic gait assessment, highlighting how, for designing improved prostheses and more effective therapies for patients, it is of critical importance to analyze movement neural control and its mechanical actuation as a whole, without limiting the focus to one specific aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano De Marchis
- Department of Industrial, Electronics and Mechanical Engineering, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Engineering, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Cristiano De Marchis
| | - Simone Ranaldi
- Department of Industrial, Electronics and Mechanical Engineering, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Tiwana Varrecchia
- Department of Medicine, Epidemiology, Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, National Institute for Insurance Against Accidents at Work (INAIL), Rome, Italy
| | - Mariano Serrao
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Stefano Filippo Castiglia
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Antonella Tatarelli
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ranavolo
- Department of Medicine, Epidemiology, Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, National Institute for Insurance Against Accidents at Work (INAIL), Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- Department of Medicine, Epidemiology, Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, National Institute for Insurance Against Accidents at Work (INAIL), Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Conforto
- Department of Industrial, Electronics and Mechanical Engineering, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
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8
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Maitland ME, Allyn KJ, Ficanha EM, Colvin JM, Wernke MM. Finite element simulation of frontal plane adaptation using full-foot, split-toe and cam-linkage designs in prosthetic feet. JOURNAL OF PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS : JPO 2022; 34:14-21. [PMID: 35002181 PMCID: PMC8740950 DOI: 10.1097/jpo.0000000000000363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Murray E. Maitland
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Simoni L, Scarton A, Gerli F, Macchi C, Gori F, Pasquini G, Pogliaghi S. Testing the Performance of an Innovative Markerless Technique for Quantitative and Qualitative Gait Analysis. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20226654. [PMID: 33233799 PMCID: PMC7699971 DOI: 10.3390/s20226654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Gait abnormalities such as high stride and step frequency/cadence (SF-stride/second, CAD-step/second), stride variability (SV) and low harmony may increase the risk of injuries and be a sentinel of medical conditions. This research aims to present a new markerless video-based technology for quantitative and qualitative gait analysis. 86 healthy individuals (mead age 32 years) performed a 90 s test on treadmill at self-selected walking speed. We measured SF and CAD by a photoelectric sensors system; then, we calculated average ± standard deviation (SD) and within-subject coefficient of variation (CV) of SF as an index of SV. We also recorded a 60 fps video of the patient. With a custom-designed web-based video analysis software, we performed a spectral analysis of the brightness over time for each pixel of the image, that reinstituted the frequency contents of the videos. The two main frequency contents (F1 and F2) from this analysis should reflect the forcing/dominant variables, i.e., SF and CAD. Then, a harmony index (HI) was calculated, that should reflect the proportion of the pixels of the image that move consistently with F1 or its supraharmonics. The higher the HI value, the less variable the gait. The correspondence SF-F1 and CAD-F2 was evaluated with both paired t-Test and correlation and the relationship between SV and HI with correlation. SF and CAD were not significantly different from and highly correlated with F1 (0.893 ± 0.080 Hz vs. 0.895 ± 0.084 Hz, p < 0.001, r2 = 0.99) and F2 (1.787 ± 0.163 Hz vs. 1.791 ± 0.165 Hz, p < 0.001, r2 = 0.97). The SV was 1.84% ± 0.66% and it was significantly and moderately correlated with HI (0.082 ± 0.028, p < 0.001, r2 = 0.13). The innovative video-based technique of global, markerless gait analysis proposed in our study accurately identifies the main frequency contents and the variability of gait in healthy individuals, thus providing a time-efficient, low-cost means to quantitatively and qualitatively study human locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Simoni
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37129 Verona, Italy;
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 50143 Florence, Italy; (F.G.); (C.M.); (G.P.)
| | | | - Filippo Gerli
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 50143 Florence, Italy; (F.G.); (C.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Claudio Macchi
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 50143 Florence, Italy; (F.G.); (C.M.); (G.P.)
| | | | - Guido Pasquini
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, 50143 Florence, Italy; (F.G.); (C.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Silvia Pogliaghi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37129 Verona, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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10
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Cimolin V, Pau M, Cau N, Leban B, Porta M, Capodaglio P, Sartorio A, Grugni G, Galli M. Changes in symmetry during gait in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2020; 23:1094-1101. [PMID: 32619156 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2020.1787999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Most studies on locomotion of individuals with the Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) have been performed in a laboratory setting using quantitative motion analysis. Recently, wireless inertial sensors have been successfully employed for gait analysis in different pathological states with the advantages of reproducing a testing condition very close to those encountered in daily living. Using such devices, it is possible not only to characterize the conventional spatio-temporal parameters, but also extract information on further less conventional metrics, such as the harmonic ratio (HR), a measure of step-to-step symmetry based on trunk acceleration processing. In the present study, this technique was used to quantify gait parameters during level walking in 20 adults with PWS who were compared to 20 unaffected individuals. While no differences between the two groups were found in terms of spatio-temporal parameters, individuals with PWS exhibited significantly reduced values of HR in the antero-posterior and vertical directions. Such results, which indicate a poorer gait symmetry in PWS, suggest that upper body accelerations, as well as HR, provide novel information on gait in people with PWS that could not be extracted from spatio-temporal parameters only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cimolin
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Nicola Cau
- Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Unit and Clinical Lab for Gait Analysis and Posture, Ospedale San Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Italy Piancavallo di Oggebbio (Verbania)
| | - Bruno Leban
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Porta
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paolo Capodaglio
- Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Unit and Clinical Lab for Gait Analysis and Posture, Ospedale San Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Italy Piancavallo di Oggebbio (Verbania)
| | - Alessandro Sartorio
- Division of Auxology and Experimental Laboratory for Auxo-endocrinological Research, Ospedale S. Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Piancavallo di Oggebbio (Verbania), Italy
| | - Graziano Grugni
- Division of Auxology and Experimental Laboratory for Auxo-endocrinological Research, Ospedale S. Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Piancavallo di Oggebbio (Verbania), Italy
| | - Manuela Galli
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Moreira R, Teles A, Fialho R, Dos Santos TCP, Vasconcelos SS, de Sá IC, Bastos VH, Silva F, Teixeira S. Can human posture and range of motion be measured automatically by smart mobile applications? Med Hypotheses 2020; 142:109741. [PMID: 32344284 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.109741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Human posture and Range of Motion (ROM) are important components of a physical assessment and, from the collected data, it is possible to identify postural deviations such as scoliosis or joint and muscle limitations, hence identifying risks of more serious injuries. Posture assessment and ROM measures are also necessary metrics to monitor the effect of treatments used in the motor rehabilitation of patients, as well as to monitor their clinical progress. These evaluation processes are more frequently performed through visual inspection and manual palpation, which are simple and low cost methods. These methods, however, can be optimized with the use of tools such as photogrammetry and goniometry. Mobile solutions have also been developed to help health professionals to capture more objective data and with less risk of bias. Although there are already several systems proposed for assessing human posture and ROM in the literature, they have not been able to automatically identify and mark Anatomical and Segment Points (ASPs). The hypothesis presented here considers the development of a mobile application for automatic identification of ASPs by using machine learning algorithms and computer vision models associated with technologies embedded in smartphones. From ASPs identification, it will be possible to identify changes in postural alignment and ROM. In this context, our view is that an application derived from the hypothesis will serve as an additional tool to assist in the physical assessment process and, consequently, in the diagnosis of disorders related to postural and movement changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayele Moreira
- Federal University of Piauí, Parnaíba, PI, Brazil; University Center Inta - UNINTA, Sobral, CE, Brazil.
| | - Ariel Teles
- Federal University of Piauí, Parnaíba, PI, Brazil; Federal Institute of Maranhão, Araioses, MA, Brazil; Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil.
| | - Renan Fialho
- Federal University of Piauí, Parnaíba, PI, Brazil
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12
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Leban B, Cimolin V, Porta M, Arippa F, Pilloni G, Galli M, Pau M. Age-Related Changes in Smoothness of Gait of Healthy Children and Early Adolescents. J Mot Behav 2019; 52:694-702. [PMID: 31650909 DOI: 10.1080/00222895.2019.1680949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we acquired and processed trunk accelerations during level walking in 85 children aged 8-13 years to calculate spatio-temporal parameters and Harmonic Ratio (HR), which is a metrics representative of gait smoothness and step-to-step symmetry. The results show that while spatio-temporal parameters remain unchanged once normalized considering individuals' anthropometry, significantly higher values of HR for both the antero-posterior and vertical directions were found in participants aged 12-13 with respect to those of 8-9. This indicates an improvement of gait symmetry, which suggests that the gait maturation process is still ongoing for the age ranges tested here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Leban
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Veronica Cimolin
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Micaela Porta
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federico Arippa
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Pilloni
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Manuela Galli
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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13
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Varrecchia T, Serrao M, Rinaldi M, Ranavolo A, Conforto S, De Marchis C, Simonetti A, Poni I, Castellano S, Silvetti A, Tatarelli A, Fiori L, Conte C, Draicchio F. Common and specific gait patterns in people with varying anatomical levels of lower limb amputation and different prosthetic components. Hum Mov Sci 2019; 66:9-21. [PMID: 30889496 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The present study's aim was to identify the kinematic and kinetic gait patterns and to measure the energy consumption in people with amputation according to both the anatomical level of amputation and the type of prosthetic components in comparison with a control group matched for the gait speed. Fifteen subjects with unilateral transtibial amputation (TTA), forty with unilateral transfemoral amputation (TFA) (9 with mechanical, 17 with CLeg and 14 with Genium prosthesis) and forty healthy subjects were recruited. We computed the time-distance gait parameters; the range of angular motion (RoM) at hip, knee and ankle joints, and at the trunk and pelvis; the values of the 2 peaks of vertical force curve; the full width at half maximum (FWHM) and center of activity (CoA) of vertical force; the mechanical behavior in terms of energy recovery (R-step) and energy consumption. The main results were: i) both TTA and TFA show a common gait pattern characterized by a symmetric increase of step length, step width, double support duration, pelvic obliquity, trunk lateral bending and trunk rotation RoMs compared to control groups. They show also an asymmetric increase of stance duration and of Peak1 in non-amputated side and a decrease of ankle RoM in amputated side; ii) only TFA show a specific gait pattern, depending on the level of amputation, characterized by a symmetric reduction of R-step and an asymmetric decrease of stance duration, CoA and FWHM and an increase of Peak1 in the amputated side and of hip and knee RoM, CoA and FWHM in the non-amputated side; iii) people with amputation with Genium prosthesis show a longer step length and increased hip and knee RoMs compared to people with amputation with mechanical prosthesis who conversely show an increased pelvic obliquity: these are specific gait patterns depending of the type of prosthesis. In conclusion, we identified both common and specific gait patterns in people with amputation, either regardless of, or according to their level of amputation and the type of prosthetic component.
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14
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Paradisi F, Di Stanislao E, Summa A, Brunelli S, Traballesi M, Vannozzi G. Upper body accelerations during level walking in transtibial amputees. Prosthet Orthot Int 2019; 43:204-212. [PMID: 30112983 DOI: 10.1177/0309364618792745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The observation of upper body movement is gaining interest in the gait analysis community. Recent studies involved the use of body-worn motion sensors, allowing translation of laboratory measurements to real-life settings in the context of patient monitoring and fall prevention. OBJECTIVES: It was shown that amputee persons demonstrate altered acceleration patterns due to the presence of prosthetic components, while no information is available on how accelerations propagate upwards to the head during level walking. This descriptive study aims to fill this gap. STUDY DESIGN: Original research report. METHODS: Twenty definitive prosthesis users with transtibial amputation and 20 age-matched able-bodied individuals participated in the study. Three magneto-inertial measurement units were placed at head, sternum and pelvis level to assess acceleration root mean square. Three repetitions of the 10-m walking test were performed at a self-selected speed. RESULTS: Acceleration root mean square was significantly larger at pelvis and head level in individuals with amputation than in able-bodied participants, mainly in the transverse plane ( p < 0.05). Differences were also observed in how accelerations propagate upwards, highlighting that a different motor strategy is adopted in amputee persons gait to compensate for increased instability. CONCLUSION: The obtained parameters allow an objective mobility assessment of amputee persons that can integrate with the traditional clinical approach. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Transtibial amputees exhibit asymmetries due to the sound limb's support prevalence during gait: this is evidenced by amplified accelerations on the transverse plane and by related differences in upper body movement control. Assessing these accelerations and their attenuations upwards may be helpful to understand amputee's motor strategies and to improve prosthetic training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Paradisi
- 1 Institute for Research and Health Care, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,3 Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Foro Italico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Di Stanislao
- 2 ITOP SpA Officine Ortopediche, Rome, Italy.,3 Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Foro Italico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Aurora Summa
- 3 Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Foro Italico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Brunelli
- 1 Institute for Research and Health Care, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - M Traballesi
- 1 Institute for Research and Health Care, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vannozzi
- 3 Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System, Foro Italico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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15
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Micó-Amigo ME, Kingma I, Heinzel S, Rispens SM, Heger T, Nussbaum S, van Lummel RC, Berg D, Maetzler W, van Dieën JH. Potential Markers of Progression in Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease Derived From Assessment of Circular Gait With a Single Body-Fixed-Sensor: A 5 Year Longitudinal Study. Front Hum Neurosci 2019; 13:59. [PMID: 30837857 PMCID: PMC6389786 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Development of objective, reliable and easy-to-use methods to obtain progression markers of Parkinson's disease (PD) is required to evaluate interventions and to advance research in PD. This study aimed to provide quantitative markers of progression in idiopathic PD from the assessment of circular gait (walking in circles) with a single body-fixed inertial sensor placed on the lower back. Methods: The assessments were performed every 6 months over a (up to) 5 years period for 22 patients in early-stage PD, 27 patients in middle-stage PD and 25 healthy controls (HC). Longitudinal changes of 24 gait features extracted from accelerometry were compared between PD groups and HCs with generalized estimating equations (GEE) analysis, accounting for gait speed, age and levodopa medication state confounders when required. Results: Five gait features indicated progressive worsening in early stages of PD: number of steps, total duration and harmonic ratios calculated from vertical (VT), medio-lateral (ML), and anterior-posterior (AP) accelerations. For middle stages of PD, three gait features were identified as potential progression markers: stride time variability, and stride regularity from VT and AP acceleration. Conclusion: Faster progressive worsening of gait features in early and middle stages of PD relative to healthy controls over 5 years confirmed the potential of accelerometry-based assessments as quantitative progression markers in early and middle stages of the disease. The difference in significant parameters between both PD groups suggests that distinct domains of gait deteriorate in these PD stages. We conclude that instrumented circular walking assessment is a practical and useful tool in the assessment of PD progression that may have relevant potential to be implemented in clinical trials and even clinical routine, particularly in a developing digital era.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Encarna Micó-Amigo
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Idsart Kingma
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Heinzel
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Sietse M. Rispens
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Personal Health Department, Philips Research Europe, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Tanja Heger
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Center of Neurology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- DZNE, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Nussbaum
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Center of Neurology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- DZNE, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Daniela Berg
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
- Personal Health Department, Philips Research Europe, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Center of Neurology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Walter Maetzler
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
- Personal Health Department, Philips Research Europe, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Center of Neurology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jaap H. van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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16
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Hsu WC, Sugiarto T, Lin YJ, Yang FC, Lin ZY, Sun CT, Hsu CL, Chou KN. Multiple-Wearable-Sensor-Based Gait Classification and Analysis in Patients with Neurological Disorders. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 18:E3397. [PMID: 30314269 PMCID: PMC6210399 DOI: 10.3390/s18103397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the placement of multiple wearable sensors for the purpose of analyzing and classifying the gaits of patients with neurological disorders. Seven inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors were placed at seven locations: the lower back (L5) and both sides of the thigh, distal tibia (shank), and foot. The 20 subjects selected to participate in this study were separated into two groups: stroke patients (11) and patients with neurological disorders other than stroke (brain concussion, spinal injury, or brain hemorrhage) (9). The temporal parameters of gait were calculated using a wearable device, and various features and sensor configurations were examined to establish the ideal accuracy for classifying different groups. A comparison of the various methods and features for classifying the three groups revealed that a combination of time domain and gait temporal feature-based classification with the Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) algorithm outperformed the other methods of feature-based classification. The classification results of different sensor placements revealed that the sensor placed on the shank achieved higher accuracy than the other sensor placements (L5, foot, and thigh). The placement-based classification of the shank sensor achieved 89.13% testing accuracy with the Decision Tree (DT) classifier algorithm. The results of this study indicate that the wearable IMU device is capable of differentiating between the gait patterns of healthy patients, patients with stroke, and patients with other neurological disorders. Moreover, the most favorable results were reported for the classification that used the combination of time domain and gait temporal features as the model input and the shank location for sensor placement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chun Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Applied Science and Technology, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - Tommy Sugiarto
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Applied Science and Technology, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan.
- Division of Embedded System and SoC Technology, System Integration and Application Department, Information and Communication Research Laboratory, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 31057, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Jia Lin
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan.
| | - Fu-Chi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - Zheng-Yi Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Taipei City Hospital Zhongxing Branch, Datong District, Taipei 10341, Taiwan.
| | - Chi-Tien Sun
- Division of Embedded System and SoC Technology, System Integration and Application Department, Information and Communication Research Laboratory, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 31057, Taiwan.
| | - Chun-Lung Hsu
- Division of Embedded System and SoC Technology, System Integration and Application Department, Information and Communication Research Laboratory, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 31057, Taiwan.
| | - Kuan-Nien Chou
- Neurosurgery Department, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
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17
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Accelerometric Trunk Sensors to Detect Changes of Body Positions in Immobile Patients. SENSORS 2018; 18:s18103272. [PMID: 30274221 PMCID: PMC6210462 DOI: 10.3390/s18103272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mobilization, verticalization and position change are mandatory for severely affected neurological patients in early neurorehabilitation in order to improve neurological status and prevent complications. However, with the exception of hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, this activity is not usually monitored and so far the automated monitoring of position changes in immobile patients has not been investigated. Therefore, we investigated whether accelerometers on the upper trunk could reliably detect body position changes in immobile patients. Thirty immobile patients in early neurorehabilitation (Barthel Index ≤ 30) were enrolled. Two tri-axial accelerometers were placed on the upper trunk and on the thigh. Information on the position and position changes of the subject were derived from accelerometer data and compared to standard written documentation in the hospital over 24 h. Frequency and duration of different body positions (supine, sidelying, sitting) were measured. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. Groups were compared using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis-test. Differences were considered significant if p < 0.05. Trunk sensors detected 100% and thigh sensors 66% of position changes (p = 0.0004) compared to standard care documentation. Furthermore, trunk recording also detected additional spontaneous body position changes that were not documented in standard care (81.8 ± 4.4% of all position changes were documented in standard care documentation) (p < 0.0001). We found that accelerometric trunk sensors are suitable for recording position changes and mobilization of severely affected patients. Our findings suggest that using accelerometers for care documentation is useful for monitoring position changes and mobilization frequencies in and outside of hospital for severely affected neurological patients. Accelerometric sensors may be valuable in monitoring continuation of care plans after intensive neurorehabilitation.
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18
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Bastas G, Fleck JJ, Peters RA, Zelik KE. IMU-based gait analysis in lower limb prosthesis users: Comparison of step demarcation algorithms. Gait Posture 2018; 64:30-37. [PMID: 29807270 PMCID: PMC6062463 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2018.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)-based gait analysis algorithms have previously been validated in healthy controls. However, little is known about the efficacy, performance, and applicability of these algorithms in clinical populations with gait deviations such as lower limb prosthesis users (LLPUs). RESEARCH QUESTION To compare the performance of 3 different IMU-based algorithms to demarcate steps from LLPUs. METHODS We used a single IMU sensor affixed to the midline lumbopelvic region of 17 transtibial (TTA), 16 transfemoral (TFA) LLPUs, and 14 healthy controls (HC). We collected acceleration and angular velocity data during overground walking trials. Step demarcation was evaluated based on fore-aft acceleration, detecting either: (i) maximum acceleration peak, (ii) zero-crossing, or (iii) the peak immediately preceding a zero-crossing. We quantified and compared the variability (standard deviation) in acceleration waveforms from superposed step intervals, and variability in step duration, by each algorithm. RESULTS We found that the zero-crossing algorithm outperformed both peak detection algorithms in 65% of TTAs, 81% of TFAs, and 71% of HCs, as evidenced by lower standard deviations in acceleration, more consistent qualitative demarcation of steps, and more normally distributed step durations. SIGNIFICANCE The choice of feature-based algorithm with which to partition IMU waveforms into individual steps can affect the quality and interpretation of estimated gait spatiotemporal metrics in LLPUs. We conclude that the fore-aft acceleration zero-crossing serves as a more reliable feature for demarcating steps in the gait patterns of LLPUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerasimos Bastas
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
| | | | - Richard A. Peters
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Vanderbilt University
| | - Karl E. Zelik
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University
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19
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Rodrigues FB, Magnani RM, Lehnen GC, Souza GSDSE, Andrade AO, Vieira MF. Effects of backpack load and positioning on nonlinear gait features in young adults. ERGONOMICS 2018; 61:720-728. [PMID: 29202661 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2017.1413213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Overloaded backpacks can cause changes in posture and gait dynamic balance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess gait regularity and local dynamic stability in young adults as they carried a backpack in different positions, and with different loads. Twenty-one healthy young adults participated in the study, carrying a backpack that was loaded with 10 and 20% of their body weight (BW). The participants walked on a level treadmill at their preferred walking speeds for 4 min under different conditions of backpack load and position (i.e. with backpack positioned back bilaterally, back unilaterally, frontally or without a backpack). Results indicate that backpack load and positioning significantly influence gait stability and regularity, with the exception of the 10% BW bilateral back position. Therefore, the recommended safe load for school-age children and adolescents (10% of BW) should also be considered for young adults. Practitioner summary: Increase in load results in changes in posture, muscle activity and gait parameters, so we investigated the gait adaptations related to regularity and stability. Conditions with high backpack loads significantly influenced gait stability and regularity in a position-dependent manner, except for 10% body weight bilateral back position.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Barbosa Rodrigues
- a Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory , Federal University of Goiás , Goiânia , Brazil
| | - Rina Marcia Magnani
- a Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory , Federal University of Goiás , Goiânia , Brazil
| | - Georgia Cristina Lehnen
- a Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory , Federal University of Goiás , Goiânia , Brazil
| | | | - Adriano O Andrade
- b Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Centre for Innovation and Technology Assessment in Health, Postgraduate Program in Electrical and Biomedical Engineering , Federal University of Uberlândia , Uberlândia , Brazil
| | - Marcus Fraga Vieira
- a Bioengineering and Biomechanics Laboratory , Federal University of Goiás , Goiânia , Brazil
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20
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Belluscio V, Bergamini E, Iosa M, Tramontano M, Morone G, Vannozzi G. The iFST: An instrumented version of the Fukuda Stepping Test for balance assessment. Gait Posture 2018; 60:203-208. [PMID: 29277058 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The maintenance of the upright posture during dynamic balance requires the integration of sensory inputs regulated by the brain. After a neurological event, the assessment of balance control impairments is crucial for supporting health professionals in the design of personalized rehabilitation protocols. A commonly used test to assess balance ability is the Fukuda Stepping Test (FST). However, the clinical parameters traditionally considered are not fully representative of the patient's motor ability. The purpose of this study was to devise an instrumented version of the FST (iFST) that embodies inertial sensors and allows to obtain individual motor strategy information. Twenty-seven sub-acute stroke patients and 18 healthy adults performed a repeated stepping task with closed eyes wearing five inertial sensors located on both distal tibiae and at pelvis, sternum, and head levels. From final foot position, body rotation and linear displacements were measured. A set of indices related to upper-body stability were estimated from pelvis, sternum, and head accelerations: Root Mean Square, Attenuation Coefficients, and improved Harmonic Ratio. Two additional parameters based on upper-body angular velocities were devised to assess step-by-step repeatability and inter-segment velocity variations. The results suggest that the clinical parameters do not provide enough information about the two groups' motor strategies. Conversely, five iFST parameters were identified as predictors of patients' motor ability, discriminating not only between healthy and pathological subjects, but also between different motor deficit levels within the same pathology. The iFST could be included in the clinical routine assessment of balance impairments, supporting the design of personalized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Belluscio
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Bergamini
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy.
| | - Marco Iosa
- Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation, Santa Lucia Foundation (Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care), Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tramontano
- Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation, Santa Lucia Foundation (Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care), Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morone
- Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation, Santa Lucia Foundation (Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care), Rome, Italy; Private Inpatients Unit, Santa Lucia Foundation (Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care), Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vannozzi
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
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21
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Multi-sensor assessment of dynamic balance during gait in patients with subacute stroke. J Biomech 2017; 61:208-215. [PMID: 28823468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The capacity to maintain upright balance by minimising upper body oscillations during walking, also referred to as gait stability, has been associated with a decreased risk of fall. Although it is well known that fall is a common complication after stroke, no study considered the role of both trunk and head when assessing gait stability in this population. The primary aim of this study was to propose a multi-sensor protocol to quantify gait stability in patients with subacute stroke using gait quality indices derived from pelvis, sternum, and head accelerations. Second, the association of these indices with the level of walking ability, with traditional clinical scale scores, and with fall events occurring within the six months after patients' dismissal was investigated. The accelerations corresponding to the three abovementioned body levels were measured using inertial sensors during a 10-Meter Walk Test performed by 45 inpatients and 25 control healthy subjects. A set of indices related to gait stability were estimated and clinical performance scales were administered to each patient. The amplitude of the accelerations, the way it is attenuated/amplified from lower to upper body levels, and the gait symmetry provide valuable information about subject-specific motor strategies, discriminate between different levels of walking ability, and correlate with clinical scales. In conclusion, the proposed multi-sensor protocol could represent a useful tool to quantify gait stability, support clinicians in the identification of patients potentially exposed to a high risk of falling, and assess the effectiveness of rehabilitation protocols in the clinical routine.
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Pasciuto I, Bergamini E, Iosa M, Vannozzi G, Cappozzo A. Overcoming the limitations of the Harmonic Ratio for the reliable assessment of gait symmetry. J Biomech 2017; 53:84-89. [PMID: 28104246 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Harmonic Ratio (HR) is an index based on the spectral analysis of lower trunk accelerations that is commonly used to assess the quality of gait. However, it presents several issues concerning reliability and interpretability. As a consequence, the literature provides very different values albeit corresponding to the same populations. In the present work, an improved harmonic ratio (iHR) was defined, relating the power of the intrinsic harmonics (i.e. associated with the symmetric component of gait) to the total power of the signal for each stride, leading to a normalised index ranging from 0 to 100%. The effect of the considered number of harmonics and strides on the estimate of both HR and iHR was assessed. The gait of three groups of volunteers was investigated: young healthy adults, elderly women and male trans-femoral amputees. Both HR and iHR were able to discriminate gait deviations from the gait of young healthy adults. Moreover, iHR proved to be more robust with respect to the number of considered harmonics and strides, and to exhibit a lower inter-stride variability. Additionally, using a normalised index as iHR led to a more straightforward interpretation and improved comparability. The importance of standardised conditions for the index evaluation was unveiled, and, in order to enhance the future comparability of the index, the following guidelines were presented: considering at least 20 harmonics and 20 strides; expressing the acceleration components in a repeatable, anatomical, local system of reference; and evaluating the iHR index, rather than the traditional HR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Pasciuto
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Bergamini
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Iosa
- Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation, Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vannozzi
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy.
| | - Aurelio Cappozzo
- Interuniversity Centre of Bioengineering of the Human Neuromusculoskeletal System (BOHNES), Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
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23
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Wang T, Wang Z, Zhang D, Gu T, Ni H, Jia J, Zhou X, Lv J. Recognizing Parkinsonian Gait Pattern by Exploiting Fine-Grained Movement Function Features. ACM T INTEL SYST TEC 2016. [DOI: 10.1145/2890511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the typical movement disorder diseases among elderly people, which has a serious impact on their daily lives. In this article, we propose a novel computation framework to recognize gait patterns in patients with PD. The key idea of our approach is to distinguish gait patterns in PD patients from healthy individuals by accurately extracting gait features that capture all three aspects of movement functions, that is, stability, symmetry, and harmony. The proposed framework contains three steps: gait phase discrimination, feature extraction and selection, and pattern classification. In the first step, we put forward a sliding window--based method to discriminate four gait phases from plantar pressure data. Based on the gait phases, we extract and select gait features that characterize stability, symmetry, and harmony of movement functions. Finally, we recognize PD gait patterns by applying a hybrid classification model. We evaluate the framework using an open dataset that contains real plantar pressure data of 93 PD patients and 72 healthy individuals. Experimental results demonstrate that our framework significantly outperforms the four baseline approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianben Wang
- School of Computer Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhu Wang
- School of Computer Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an Shaanxi, China
| | | | - Tao Gu
- RMIT University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
| | - Hongbo Ni
- School of Computer Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiangbo Jia
- School of Computer Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an Shaanxi, China
| | - Xingshe Zhou
- School of Computer Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Zhuhai Kingsoft Office Software Co., Ltd, Zhuhai Guangdong, China
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Bachasson D, Moraux A, Ollivier G, Decostre V, Ledoux I, Gidaro T, Servais L, Behin A, Stojkovic T, Hébert LJ, Puymirat J, Eymard B, Bassez G, Hogrel JY. Relationship between muscle impairments, postural stability, and gait parameters assessed with lower-trunk accelerometry in myotonic dystrophy type 1. Neuromuscul Disord 2016; 26:428-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2016.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Iosa M, Picerno P, Paolucci S, Morone G. Wearable inertial sensors for human movement analysis. Expert Rev Med Devices 2016; 13:641-59. [PMID: 27309490 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2016.1198694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present review aims to provide an overview of the most common uses of wearable inertial sensors in the field of clinical human movement analysis. AREAS COVERED Six main areas of application are analysed: gait analysis, stabilometry, instrumented clinical tests, upper body mobility assessment, daily-life activity monitoring and tremor assessment. Each area is analyzed both from a methodological and applicative point of view. The focus on the methodological approaches is meant to provide an idea of the computational complexity behind a variable/parameter/index of interest so that the reader is aware of the reliability of the approach. The focus on the application is meant to provide a practical guide for advising clinicians on how inertial sensors can help them in their clinical practice. Expert commentary: Less expensive and more easy to use than other systems used in human movement analysis, wearable sensors have evolved to the point that they can be considered ready for being part of routine clinical routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Iosa
- a Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation , Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS , Roma , Italy
| | - Pietro Picerno
- b Faculty of Psychology, School of Sport and Exercise Sciences , 'eCampus' University , Novedrate , CO , Italy
| | - Stefano Paolucci
- a Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation , Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS , Roma , Italy
| | - Giovanni Morone
- a Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation , Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS , Roma , Italy
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Overground walking training with the i-Walker, a robotic servo-assistive device, enhances balance in patients with subacute stroke: a randomized controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2016; 13:47. [PMID: 27225043 PMCID: PMC4880987 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-016-0155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients affected by mild stroke benefit more from physiological overground walking training than walking-like training performed in place using specific devices. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of overground robotic walking training performed with the servo-assistive robotic rollator (i-Walker) on walking, balance, gait stability and falls in a community setting in patients with mild subacute stroke. METHODS Forty-four patients were randomly assigned to two different groups that received the same therapy in two daily 40-min sessions 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Twenty sessions of standard therapy were performed by both groups. In the other 20 sessions the subjects enrolled in the i-Walker-Group (iWG) performed with the i-Walker and the Control-Group patients (CG) performed the same amount of conventional walking oriented therapy. Clinical and instrumented gait assessments were made pre- and post-treatment. The follow-up observation consisted of recording the number of fallers in the community setting after 6 months. RESULTS Treatment effectiveness was higher in the iWG group in terms of balance improvement (Tinetti: 68.4 ± 27.6 % vs. 48.1 ± 33.9 %, p = 0.033) and 10-m and 6-min timed walking tests (significant interaction between group and time: F(1,40) = 14.252, p = 0.001; and F(1,40) = 7.883, p = 0.008, respectively). When measured, latero-lateral upper body accelerations were reduced in iWG (F = 4.727, p = 0.036), suggesting increased gait stability, which was supported by a reduced number of falls at home. CONCLUSIONS A robotic servo-assisted i-Walker improved walking performance and balance in patients affected by mild/moderate stroke, leading to increased gait stability and reduced falls in the community. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered on anzctr.org.au (July 1, 2015; ACTRN12615000681550 ).
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Howcroft J, Lemaire ED, Kofman J, Kendell C. Understanding responses to gait instability from plantar pressure measurement and the relationship to balance and mobility in lower-limb amputees. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2016; 32:241-8. [PMID: 26651474 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measuring responses to a more unstable walking environment at the point-of-care may reveal clinically relevant strategies, particularly for rehabilitation. This study determined if temporal measures, center of pressure-derived measures, and force impulse measures can quantify responses to surface instability and correlate with clinical balance and mobility measures. METHODS Thirty-one unilateral amputees, 11 transfemoral and 20 transtibial, walked on level and soft ground while wearing pressure-sensing insoles. Foot-strike and foot-off center of pressure, center of pressure path, temporal, and force impulse variables were derived from F-Scan pressure-sensing insoles. FINDINGS Significant differences (P<0.05) between level and soft ground were found for temporal and center of pressure path measures. Twenty regression models (R(2) ≤ 0.840), which related plantar-pressure-derived measures with clinical scores, consisted of nine variables. Stride time was in eight models; posterior deviations per stride in six models; mean CoP path velocity in five models; and anterior-posterior center of pressure path coefficient of variation, percent double-support time, and percent stance in four models. INTERPRETATION Center of pressure-derived parameters, particularly temporal and center of pressure path measures, can differentiate between level and soft ground walking for transfemoral and transtibial amputees. Center of pressure-derived parameters correlated with clinical measures of mobility and balance, explaining up to 84.0% of the variability. The number of posterior deviations per stride, mean CoP path velocity stride time, anterior-posterior center of pressure path coefficient of variation, percent double-support time, and percent stance were frequently related to clinical balance and mobility measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Howcroft
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
| | - Edward D Lemaire
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Centre for Rehabilitation, Research and Development, 505 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M2, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada.
| | - Jonathan Kofman
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
| | - Cynthia Kendell
- Cancer Outcomes Research Program, Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University/Capital Health, Halifax, NS B3H 3J5, Canada.
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The Conventional Non-Articulated SACH or a Multiaxial Prosthetic Foot for Hypomobile Transtibial Amputees? A Clinical Comparison on Mobility, Balance, and Quality of Life. ScientificWorldJournal 2015; 2015:261801. [PMID: 26078990 PMCID: PMC4442286 DOI: 10.1155/2015/261801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of a non-articulated SACH and a multiaxial foot-ankle mechanism on the performance of low-activity users are of great interest for practitioners in amputee rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to compare these two prosthetic feet and assess possible improvements introduced by the increased degrees of freedom provided by the multiaxial foot. For this purpose, a group of 20 hypomobile transtibial amputees (TTAs) had their usual SACH replaced with a multiaxial foot. Participants' functional mobility, involving ambulatory skills in overground level walking, ramps, and stairs, was evaluated by performing Six-Minute Walking Test (6 MWT), Locomotor Capability Index-5 (LCI-5), Hill Assessment Index (HAI), and Stair Assessment Index (SAI). Balance performances were assessed using Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and analysing upper body accelerations during gait. Moreover, the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ) was performed to indicate the prosthesis-related quality of life. Results showed that participants walked faster using the multiaxial foot (p < 0.05) maintaining the same upright gait stability. Significant improvements with the multiaxial foot were also observed in BBS, LCI-5, and SAI times and 4 of 9 subscales of the PEQ. Our findings demonstrate that a multiaxial foot represents a considerable alternative solution with respect to the conventional SACH in the prosthetic prescription for hypomobile TTAs.
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Howcroft J, Lemaire ED, Kofman J, Kendell C. Understanding dynamic stability from pelvis accelerometer data and the relationship to balance and mobility in transtibial amputees. Gait Posture 2015; 41:808-12. [PMID: 25804844 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated whether pelvis acceleration-derived parameters can differentiate between dynamic stability states for transtibial amputees during level (LG) and uneven ground (UG) walking. Correlations between these parameters and clinical balance and mobility measures were also investigated. A convenience sample of eleven individuals with unilateral transtibial amputation walked on LG and simulated UG while pelvis acceleration data were collected at 100Hz. Descriptive statistics, Fast Fourier Transform, ratio of even to odd harmonics, and maximum Lyapunov exponent measures were derived from acceleration data. Of the 26 pelvis acceleration measures, seven had a significant difference (p≤0.05) between LG and UG walking conditions. Seven distinct, stability-relevant measures appeared in at least one of the six regression models that correlated accelerometer-derived measures to Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Community Balance and Mobility Scale (CBMS), and Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ) scores, explaining up to 100% of the variability in these measures. Of these seven measures, medial-lateral acceleration range was the most frequent model variable, appearing in four models. Anterior-posterior acceleration standard deviation and stride time appeared in three models. Pelvis acceleration-derived parameters were able to differentiate between LG and UG walking for transtibial amputees. UG walking provided the most relevant data for balance and mobility assessment. These results could translate to point of patient contact assessments using a wearable system such as a smartbelt or accelerometer-equipped smartphone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Howcroft
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1.
| | - Edward D Lemaire
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Centre for Rehabilitation, Research and Development, 505 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8M2; University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8M5.
| | - Jonathan Kofman
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1.
| | - Cynthia Kendell
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Centre for Rehabilitation, Research and Development, 505 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8M2.
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