Providing time-discrete gait information by wearable feedback apparatus for lower-limb amputees: usability and functional validation

IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng. 2015 Mar;23(2):250-7. doi: 10.1109/TNSRE.2014.2365548. Epub 2014 Oct 31.

Abstract

Here we describe a novel wearable feedback apparatus for lower-limb amputees. The system is based on three modules: a pressure-sensitive insole for the measurement of the plantar pressure distribution under the prosthetic foot during gait, a computing unit for data processing and gait segmentation, and a set of vibrating elements placed on the thigh skin. The feedback strategy relies on the detection of specific gait-phase transitions of the amputated leg. Vibrating elements are activated in a time-discrete manner, simultaneously with the occurrence of the detected gait-phase transitions. Usability and effectiveness of the apparatus were successfully assessed through an experimental validation involving ten healthy volunteers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amputation Stumps / physiopathology*
  • Amputees / rehabilitation*
  • Artificial Limbs*
  • Biofeedback, Psychology / instrumentation*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Feedback, Physiological
  • Female
  • Gait*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Manometry / instrumentation
  • Monitoring, Ambulatory / instrumentation
  • Physical Stimulation / instrumentation
  • Recovery of Function
  • Reference Values
  • Shoes
  • Therapy, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vibration