Sensors

Research

19 pages, 5175 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Effectiveness of Passive Exoskeletons and Tool Selection on Ergonomic Safety in Manhole Cover Removal

by Xun Wang, Ali Golabchi, Maryam Shakourisalim, Karla Beltran Martinez, Zeinab Estaji, Sarah Krell, Mahdi Tavakoli and Hossein Rouhani

Sensors 2025, 25(7), 2027; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25072027 - 24 Mar 2025

Viewed by 499

Abstract

Manual material handling, a common practice in various industries, often involves moving or lifting heavy objects, placing significant physical strain on workers, especially in the lower back. A prime example is manhole cover removal, which typically requires handling heavy weights, potentially leading to [...] Read more.

Manual material handling, a common practice in various industries, often involves moving or lifting heavy objects, placing significant physical strain on workers, especially in the lower back. A prime example is manhole cover removal, which typically requires handling heavy weights, potentially leading to lower back muscle strain. This study investigates the effectiveness of a passive exoskeleton in reducing ergonomic risks during manhole cover removal. Twenty able-bodied workers participated, performing the task with and without extractor tools in the field. Techniques such as surface electromyography and inertial measurement units were employed to measure muscle activity and body posture using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). This study compared muscle activities and REBA scores under different conditions: manually lifting covers, using an in-house lever tool, and using a sledgehammer and a pick bar tool named Jake, both with and without an exoskeleton. Results revealed that the in-house Lever tool was the safest and most efficient method, resulting in the lowest muscle activities and REBA scores, regardless of exoskeleton use. Interestingly, the exoskeleton significantly reduced muscle strain when using the Jake tool. These findings indicate that while the Lever tool is optimal for this task, passive exoskeletons can effectively lower ergonomic risks associated with more physically demanding tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 9777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Lower Limb Robotic Orthosis with Embedded Highly Oriented Electrospinning Sensors by Fuzzy Logic-Based Gait Phase Detection and Motion Control

by Ming-Chan Lee, Cheng-Tang Pan, Jhih-Syuan Huang, Zheng-Yu Hoe and Yeong-Maw Hwang

Sensors 2025, 25(5), 1606; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25051606 - 5 Mar 2025

Viewed by 748

Abstract

This study introduces an integrated lower limb robotic orthosis with near-field electrospinning (NFES) piezoelectric sensors and a fuzzy logic-based gait phase detection system to enhance mobility assistance and rehabilitation. The exoskeleton incorporates embedded pressure sensors within the insoles to capture ground reaction forces [...] Read more.

This study introduces an integrated lower limb robotic orthosis with near-field electrospinning (NFES) piezoelectric sensors and a fuzzy logic-based gait phase detection system to enhance mobility assistance and rehabilitation. The exoskeleton incorporates embedded pressure sensors within the insoles to capture ground reaction forces (GRFs) in real-time. A fuzzy logic inference system processes these signals, classifying gait phases such as stance, initial contact, mid-stance, and pre-swing. The NFES technique enables the fabrication of highly oriented nanofibers, improving sensor sensitivity and reliability. The system employs a master–slave control framework. A Texas Instruments (TI) TMS320F28069 microcontroller (Texas Instruments, Dallas, TX, USA) processes gait data and transmits actuation commands to motors and harmonic drives at the hip and knee joints. The control strategy follows a three-loop methodology, ensuring stable operation. Experimental validation assesses the system’s accuracy under various conditions, including no-load and loaded scenarios. Results demonstrate that the exoskeleton accurately detects gait phases, achieving a maximum tracking error of 4.23% in an 8-s gait cycle under no-load conditions and 4.34% when tested with a 68 kg user. Faster motion cycles introduce a maximum error of 6.79% for a 3-s gait cycle, confirming the system’s adaptability to dynamic walking conditions. These findings highlight the effectiveness of the developed exoskeleton in interpreting human motion intentions, positioning it as a promising solution for wearable rehabilitation and mobility assistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 25915 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Compact Orthosis Compliance Monitoring Device Using Pressure Sensors and Accelerometers: Design and Proof-of-Concept Testing

by Devi Baruni Devanand, Matthew D. Gardiner and Angela E. Kedgley

Sensors 2025, 25(5), 1352; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25051352 - 22 Feb 2025

Viewed by 538

Abstract

Monitoring orthosis compliance using patient diaries is subjective, as patients can overestimate their levels of device use. An objective way to monitor compliance is required because if an orthotic prescription is not followed, the orthosis will not work as intended. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Monitoring orthosis compliance using patient diaries is subjective, as patients can overestimate their levels of device use. An objective way to monitor compliance is required because if an orthotic prescription is not followed, the orthosis will not work as intended. This study aimed to develop and validate a device that monitors orthosis compliance objectively using pressure and acceleration. Fifteen participants were recruited to test the device’s ability to estimate wear time during the performance of several grip patterns and whilst completing selected activities of daily living. Sensor threshold values were used to discern whether users were wearing their orthosis or not. No differences between pressure sensor and accelerometer-based wear time estimations were found. The device’s pressure-based wear time estimations were found to have a specificity of 92.7 ± 16.4% and sensitivity of 74.0 ± 41.3%, whilst accelerometer-based wear time estimates had a specificity of 66.1 ± 34.7% and sensitivity of 86.2 ± 8.0%. This study successfully demonstrated the feasibility of monitoring hand orthosis compliance using pressure or acceleration. This device has the potential to provide insight into the effectiveness of both existing and novel orthotics, benefitting both clinical practice and research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2814 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Activity in Pre-Ambulatory Children with Cerebral Palsy: An Exploratory Validation Study to Distinguish Active vs. Sedentary Time Using Wearable Sensors

by Julie M. Orlando, Beth A. Smith, Jocelyn F. Hafer, Athylia Paremski, Matthew Amodeo, Michele A. Lobo and Laura A. Prosser

Sensors 2025, 25(4), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25041261 - 19 Feb 2025

Viewed by 551

Abstract

Wearable inertial sensor technology affords opportunities to record the physical activity of young children in their natural environments. The interpretation of these data, however, requires validation. The purpose of this study was to develop and establish the criterion validity of a method of [...] Read more.

Wearable inertial sensor technology affords opportunities to record the physical activity of young children in their natural environments. The interpretation of these data, however, requires validation. The purpose of this study was to develop and establish the criterion validity of a method of quantifying active and sedentary physical activity using an inertial sensor for pre-ambulatory children with cerebral palsy. Ten participants were video recorded during 30 min physical therapy sessions that encouraged gross motor play activities, and the video recording was behaviorally coded to identify active and sedentary time. A receiver operating characteristic curve identified the optimal threshold to maximize true positive and minimize false positive active time for eight participants in the development dataset. The threshold was 0.417 m/s² and was then validated with the remaining two participants; the percent of true positives and true negatives was 92.2 and 89.7%, respectively. We conclude that there is potential for raw sensor data to be used to quantify active and sedentary time in pre-ambulatory children with physical disability, and raw acceleration data may be more generalizable than the sensor-specific activity counts commonly reported in the literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of Force Development and Muscle Excitation in Resisted and Assisted Jumps in Comparison with the Isometric Mid-Shin Pull

by Giuseppe Rosaci, Davide Latini, Federico Nigro and Sandro Bartolomei

Sensors 2025, 25(3), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25030975 - 6 Feb 2025

Viewed by 680

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between the characteristics of force development and electromyographic activity of the quadriceps muscles in the isometric mid-shin pull (MSP) and the countermovement jump (CMJ) performed under different conditions. Methods: Fifteen resistance-trained individuals [...] Read more.

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between the characteristics of force development and electromyographic activity of the quadriceps muscles in the isometric mid-shin pull (MSP) and the countermovement jump (CMJ) performed under different conditions. Methods: Fifteen resistance-trained individuals (age = 25.9 ± 4.0 y; body mass = 73.2 ± 11.7 Kg; stature = 172.3 ± 9.5 cm) were tested for MSP and for the following CMJs: regular CMJ (CMJ); elastic band-assisted CMJ (CMJ_AB); elastic band-resisted CMJ (CMJ_RB); weighted vest CMJ (CMJ_V) in random order, using a force plate. Peak force (PF) and peak rate of force development (PRFD) were calculated in all the assessments, while peak velocity and power were calculated only in the CMJs. In addition, during all the tests, electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis (EMG_VL) and of vastus medialis (EMG_VM) was detected. Results: Higher PF was registered in MSP compared to the CMJs (p < 0.001). PRFD and EMG_VL were significantly more elevated in the CMJs compared to the MSP (p < 0.05). No significant correlations were noted between the PRFD measured in MSP and in CMJs, while the PRFD in MSP was largely correlated with PP in CMJs (r = 0.68/0.83). Conclusions: Results of the present study showed that CMJs promote PRFD and the excitation of the vastus lateralis, to a greater extent compared to MSP. Regular CMJ performed at body mass may represent the best option for power development, and small variations in loads allowed by weighted vests or elastic bands do not seem to alter the characteristics of force development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2849 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Smart Insoles in Assessing Dynamic Stability in Patients with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Comparative Study

by Seonghyun Kang, Jaewook Kim, Yekwang Kim, Juhui Moon, Hak Jun Kim and Seung-Jong Kim

Sensors 2025, 25(3), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25030646 - 22 Jan 2025

Viewed by 2911

Abstract

Chronic ankle instability (CAI), due to its chronic nature and biomechanical complexity, is well-suited for continuous monitoring and tele-rehabilitation using wearable sensor technology. This study assessed whether a smart insole system, equipped with 4 force-sensing resistor sensors and an inertial measurement unit, combined [...] Read more.

Chronic ankle instability (CAI), due to its chronic nature and biomechanical complexity, is well-suited for continuous monitoring and tele-rehabilitation using wearable sensor technology. This study assessed whether a smart insole system, equipped with 4 force-sensing resistor sensors and an inertial measurement unit, combined with functional tests and biomechanical indices, could distinguish CAI patients from healthy controls. A total of 21 CAI patients (23.8 ± 5.1 years) and 16 controls (22.62 ± 2.60 years) completed a battery of functional performance tests while wearing the smart insole system. The results showed an increased medial-lateral pressure ratio in the CAI during heel raise (p = 0.031, effect size = 0.82) and hop tests, suggesting an everted foot position. Significant deviations in center-of-pressure trajectory during double-leg heel raises (p = 0.005, effect size = 1.10) suggested asymmetric motion coordination, while compensatory fluctuations of the lifted limb during single-leg balance tests (p = 0.011, effect size = 1.03) were greater in CAI patients. These findings facilitated the development of features to characterize CAI-specific movement patterns. Together, this system shows promise as a quantitative assessment tool for CAI, supporting improved treatment outcomes through tele-rehabilitation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Normative Database of Spatiotemporal Gait Metrics Across Age Groups: An Observational Case–Control Study

by Lianne Mobbs, Vinuja Fernando, R. Dineth Fonseka, Pragadesh Natarajan, Monish Maharaj and Ralph J. Mobbs

Sensors 2025, 25(2), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25020581 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1280

Abstract

Introduction: Gait analysis is a vital tool in the assessment of human movement and has been widely used in clinical settings to identify potential abnormalities in individuals. However, there is a lack of consensus on the normative values for gait metrics in large [...] Read more.

Introduction: Gait analysis is a vital tool in the assessment of human movement and has been widely used in clinical settings to identify potential abnormalities in individuals. However, there is a lack of consensus on the normative values for gait metrics in large populations. The primary objective of this study is to establish a normative database of spatiotemporal gait metrics across various age groups, contributing to a broader understanding of human gait dynamics. By doing so, we aim to enhance the clinical utility of gait analysis in diagnosing and managing health conditions. Methods: We conducted an observational case–control study involving 313 healthy participants. The MetaMotionC IMU by Mbientlab Inc., equipped with a triaxial accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer, was used to capture gait data. The IMU was placed at the sternal angle of each participant to ensure optimal data capture during a 50 m walk along a flat, unobstructed pathway. Data were collected through a Bluetooth connection to a smartphone running a custom-developed application and subsequently analysed using IMUGaitPY, a specialised version of the GaitPY Python package. Results: The data showed that gait speeds decrease with ageing for males and females. The fastest gait speed is observed in the 41–50 age group at

1.35 \pm 0.23 m / s

. Males consistently exhibit faster gait speeds than females across all age groups. Step length and cadence do not have clear trends with ageing. Gait speed and step length increase consistently with height, with the tallest group (191–200 cm) walking at an average speed of

1.49 \pm 0.12 m / s

, with an average step length of

0.91 \pm 0.05 m

. Cadence, however, decreases with increasing height, with the tallest group taking

103.52 \pm 5.04 s t e p s / m i n

on average. Conclusions: This study has established a comprehensive normative database for the spatiotemporal gait metrics of gait speed, step length, and cadence, highlighting the complexities of gait dynamics across age and sex groups and the influence of height. Our findings offer valuable reference points for clinicians to distinguish between healthy and pathological gait patterns, facilitating early detection and intervention for gait-related disorders. Moreover, this database enhances the clinical utility of gait analysis, supporting more objective diagnoses and assessments of therapeutic interventions. The normative database provides a valuable reference future research and clinical practice. It enables a more nuanced understanding of how gait evolves with age, gender, and physical stature, thus informing the development of targeted interventions to maintain mobility and prevent falls in older adults. Despite potential selection bias and the cross-sectional nature of the study, the insights gained provide a solid foundation for further longitudinal studies and diverse sampling to validate and expand upon these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Physiotherapy on Shoulder Kinematics in Swimmers with Swimmer’s Shoulder Pain

by Alessandra Raffini, Miriam Martini, Laura Mazzari, Alex Buoite Stella, Manuela Deodato, Luigi Murena and Agostino Accardo

Sensors 2024, 24(24), 7936; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24247936 - 12 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1196

Abstract

Swimmer’s shoulder is a common condition among elite swimmers, often leading to pain and reduced performance. Fatigue can exacerbate this condition by affecting shoulder strength, proprioception, and range of motion, potentially increasing the risk of overuse injuries. This preliminary study aimed to evaluate [...] Read more.

Swimmer’s shoulder is a common condition among elite swimmers, often leading to pain and reduced performance. Fatigue can exacerbate this condition by affecting shoulder strength, proprioception, and range of motion, potentially increasing the risk of overuse injuries. This preliminary study aimed to evaluate the impact of physiotherapy treatment and the effects of fatigue on shoulder kinematics using inertial and magnetic measurement units (IMUs). Five male swimmers (aged 21–27) with at least 3 years of training and suffering from swimmer’s shoulder pain participated in the study. The protocol included three sessions: dry front crawl exercises using one arm in the first and third sessions, and a fatiguing swimming exercise in the second. IMUs were used to capture 3D rotation angles, focusing on flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, and internal/external rotations during the first and third sessions. Stroke amplitude was analyzed before and after the physiotherapy treatment and fatiguing exercise. The results showed a significant increase in internal/external rotation amplitude post-fatigue before physiotherapy (p = 0.03), with a non-significant decrease in flexion/extension after treatment, suggesting improved shoulder stabilization. Despite these preliminary findings being based on a reduced number of participants, they indicate that physiotherapy may enhance shoulder motion control in swimmers with shoulder pain. Nevertheless, further studies with larger cohorts are needed to confirm these results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Fitness Tracker Data to Overcome Pressure Insole Wear Time Challenges for Remote Musculoskeletal Monitoring

by Cameron A. Nurse, Katherine M. Rodzak, Peter Volgyesi, Brian Noehren and Karl E. Zelik

Sensors 2024, 24(23), 7717; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24237717 - 3 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1133

Abstract

Tibia shaft fractures are common lower extremity fractures that can require surgery and rehabilitation. However, patient recovery is often poor, partly due to clinicians’ inability to monitor bone loading, which is critical to stimulating healing. We envision a future of patient care that [...] Read more.

Tibia shaft fractures are common lower extremity fractures that can require surgery and rehabilitation. However, patient recovery is often poor, partly due to clinicians’ inability to monitor bone loading, which is critical to stimulating healing. We envision a future of patient care that includes at-home monitoring of tibia loading using pressure-sensing insoles. However, one issue is missing portions of daily loading due to limited insole wear time (e.g., not wearing shoes all day). Here, we introduce a method for overcoming this issue with a wrist-worn fitness tracker that can be worn all day. We developed a model to estimate tibia loading from fitness tracker data and evaluated its accuracy during 10-h remote data collections (N = 8). We found that a fitness tracker, with trained and calibrated models, could effectively supplement insole-based estimates of bone loading. Fitness tracker-based estimates of loading stimulus—the minute-by-minute weighted impulse of tibia loading—showed a strong fit relative to insole-based estimates (R² = 0.74). However, insoles needed to be worn for a minimum amount of time for accurate estimates. We found daily loading stimulus errors less than 5% when insoles were worn at least 25% of the day. These findings suggest that a multi-sensor approach—where insoles are worn intermittently and a fitness tracker is worn continuously throughout the day—could be a viable strategy for long-term, remote monitoring of tibia loading in daily life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 4021 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Aided Gait Analysis with a Wearable Device Featuring a Hydrogel Sensor

by Saima Hasan, Brent G. D’auria, M. A. Parvez Mahmud, Scott D. Adams, John M. Long, Lingxue Kong and Abbas Z. Kouzani

Sensors 2024, 24(22), 7370; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24227370 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 2004

Abstract

Wearable devices have revolutionized real-time health monitoring, yet challenges persist in enhancing their flexibility, weight, and accuracy. This paper presents the development of a wearable device employing a conductive polyacrylamide–lithium chloride–MXene (PLM) hydrogel sensor, an electronic circuit, and artificial intelligence (AI) for gait [...] Read more.

Wearable devices have revolutionized real-time health monitoring, yet challenges persist in enhancing their flexibility, weight, and accuracy. This paper presents the development of a wearable device employing a conductive polyacrylamide–lithium chloride–MXene (PLM) hydrogel sensor, an electronic circuit, and artificial intelligence (AI) for gait monitoring. The PLM sensor includes tribo-negative polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and tribo-positive polyurethane (PU) layers, exhibiting extraordinary stretchability (317% strain) and durability (1000 cycles) while consistently delivering stable electrical signals. The wearable device weighs just 23 g and is strategically affixed to a knee brace, harnessing mechanical energy generated during knee motion which is converted into electrical signals. These signals are digitized and then analyzed using a one-dimensional (1D) convolutional neural network (CNN), achieving an impressive accuracy of 100% for the classification of four distinct gait patterns: standing, walking, jogging, and running. The wearable device demonstrates the potential for lightweight and energy-efficient sensing combined with AI analysis for advanced biomechanical monitoring in sports and healthcare applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Video Game-Based Trunk Exercises for Rehabilitation in Chronic Stroke Survivors: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study

by Norah A. Alhwoaimel, Ann-Marie Hughes, Martin Warner, Aqeel M. Alenazi, Mohammed M. Alshehri, Bader A. Alqahtani, Ahmed S. Alhowimel, Richard Wagland, Simon Brown and Ruth Turk

Sensors 2024, 24(21), 6830; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24216830 - 24 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1370

Abstract

Aim: To assess the feasibility of video game-based trunk exercises using the Valedo^® system in a chronic stroke population. Method: Ten chronic stroke survivors (eight males and two females, mean age 63 ± 15 years) were asked to complete 18 intervention sessions, [...] Read more.

Aim: To assess the feasibility of video game-based trunk exercises using the Valedo^® system in a chronic stroke population. Method: Ten chronic stroke survivors (eight males and two females, mean age 63 ± 15 years) were asked to complete 18 intervention sessions, each lasting 45 min., over 6–8 weeks. Feasibility was evaluated quantitatively using the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS) as well as through recruitment, retention, adherence, and safety measures. Qualitative data on feasibility were collected through post-intervention semi-structured interviews. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize participant characteristics, recruitment, retention, and adherence. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis of the interviews. Results: Twelve stroke survivors were recruited from Southampton (United Kingdom) and Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), with two participants dropping out after the baseline assessment session. The remaining ten participants completed the study with a mean adherence of 96.11% to the planned sessions. No serious adverse effects were reported, however, four participants did experience trunk muscle tightness and fatigue. Post-intervention interviews revealed that participants encountered some physical and cognitive challenges while playing the Valedo video games. However, they felt that the implementation of trunk exercises using video games was safe, as the exercises were performed in a secure environment and in safe positions. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the Valedo system is feasible for delivering trunk exercises to chronic stroke survivors. Several factors should be considered when implementing this type of intervention in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3645 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Statistical Approach for Functional Reach-to-Grasp Segmentation Using a Single Inertial Measurement Unit

by Gregorio Dotti, Marco Caruso, Daniele Fortunato, Marco Knaflitz, Andrea Cereatti and Marco Ghislieri

Sensors 2024, 24(18), 6119; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24186119 - 22 Sep 2024

Viewed by 3793

Abstract

The aim of this contribution is to present a segmentation method for the identification of voluntary movements from inertial data acquired through a single inertial measurement unit placed on the subject’s wrist. Inertial data were recorded from 25 healthy subjects while performing 75 [...] Read more.

The aim of this contribution is to present a segmentation method for the identification of voluntary movements from inertial data acquired through a single inertial measurement unit placed on the subject’s wrist. Inertial data were recorded from 25 healthy subjects while performing 75 consecutive reach-to-grasp movements. The approach herein presented, called DynAMoS, is based on an adaptive thresholding step on the angular velocity norm, followed by a statistics-based post-processing on the movement duration distribution. Post-processing aims at reducing the number of erroneous transitions in the movement segmentation. We assessed the segmentation quality of this method using a stereophotogrammetric system as the gold standard. Two popular methods already presented in the literature were compared to DynAMoS in terms of the number of movements identified, onset and offset mean absolute errors, and movement duration. Moreover, we analyzed the sub-phase durations of the drinking movement to further characterize the task. The results show that the proposed method performs significantly better than the two state-of-the-art approaches (i.e., percentage of erroneous movements = 3%; onset and offset mean absolute error < 0.08 s), suggesting that DynAMoS could make more effective home monitoring applications for assessing the motion improvements of patients following domicile rehabilitation protocols. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

21 pages, 3700 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biomechanics Parameters of Gait Analysis to Characterize Parkinson’s Disease: A Scoping Review

by Michela Russo, Marianna Amboni, Noemi Pisani, Antonio Volzone, Danilo Calderone, Paolo Barone, Francesco Amato, Carlo Ricciardi and Maria Romano

Sensors 2025, 25(2), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25020338 - 9 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1389

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by a slow, short-stepping, shuffling gait pattern caused by a combination of motor control limitations due to a reduction in dopaminergic neurons. Gait disorders are indicators of global health, cognitive status, and risk of falls and increase with [...] Read more.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by a slow, short-stepping, shuffling gait pattern caused by a combination of motor control limitations due to a reduction in dopaminergic neurons. Gait disorders are indicators of global health, cognitive status, and risk of falls and increase with disease progression. Therefore, the use of quantitative information on the gait mechanisms of PD patients is a promising approach, particularly for monitoring gait disorders and potentially informing therapeutic interventions, though it is not yet a well-established tool for early diagnosis or direct assessment of disease progression. Over the years, many studies have investigated the spatiotemporal parameters that are altered in the PD gait pattern, while kinematic and kinetic gait parameters are more limited. A scoping review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. The Scopus and PubMed databases were searched between 1999 and 2023. A total of 29 articles were included that reported gait changes in PD patients under different gait conditions: single free walking, sequential motor task, and dual task. The main findings of our review highlighted the use of optoelectronic systems for recording kinematic parameters and force plates for measuring kinetic parameters, due to their high accuracy. Most gait analyses in PD patients have been conducted at self-selected walking speeds to capture natural movement, although studies have also examined gait under various conditions. The results of our review indicated that PD patients experience alterations in the range of motion of the hip, knee, and ankle joints, as well as a reduction in the power generated/absorbed and the extensor/flexor moments. These findings suggest that the PD gait pattern may be more effectively understood using kinematic and kinetic parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1761 KiB

Open AccessReview

Efficacy of Sensor-Based Training Using Exergaming or Virtual Reality in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review

by Giovanni Morone, Foivos Papaioannou, Alberto Alberti, Irene Ciancarelli, Mirjam Bonanno and Rocco Salvatore Calabrò

Sensors 2024, 24(19), 6269; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24196269 - 27 Sep 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4819

Abstract

In its chronic and non-specific form, low back pain is experienced by a large percentage of the population; its persistence impacts the quality of life and increases costs to the health care system. In recent years, the scientific literature highlights how treatment based [...] Read more.

In its chronic and non-specific form, low back pain is experienced by a large percentage of the population; its persistence impacts the quality of life and increases costs to the health care system. In recent years, the scientific literature highlights how treatment based on assessment and functional recovery is effective through IMU technology with biofeedback or exergaming as part of the tools available to assist the evaluation and treatment of these patients, who present not only with symptoms affecting the lumbar spine but often also incorrect postural attitudes. Aim: Evaluate the impact of technology, based on inertial sensors with biofeedback or exergaming, in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain. A systematic review of clinical studies obtained from PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science databases from 1 January 2016 to 1 July 2024 was conducted, developing the search string based on keywords and combinations of terms with Boolean AND/OR operators; on the retrieved articles were applied inclusion and exclusion criteria. The procedure of publication selection will be represented with the PRISMA diagram, the risk of bias through the RoB scale 2, and methodological validity with the PEDro scale. Eleven articles were included, all RCTs, and most of the publications use technology with exergaming within about 1–2 months. Of the outcomes measured, improvements were reported in pain, disability, and increased function; the neuropsychological sphere related to experiencing the pathology underwent improvements. From the results obtained, the efficacy of using technology based on exergames and inertial sensors, in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain, was increased. Further clinical studies are required to achieve more uniformity in the proposed treatment to create a common guideline for health care providers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

12 pages, 1551 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Wearable Technology Applications and Methods to Assess Clinical Outcomes in Foot and Ankle Disorders: Achievements and Perspectives

by Lorenzo Brognara, Antonio Mazzotti, Simone Ottavio Zielli, Alberto Arceri, Elena Artioli, Francesco Traina and Cesare Faldini

Sensors 2024, 24(21), 7059; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24217059 - 1 Nov 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2106

Abstract

Foot and ankle disorders are a very common diseases, represent a risk factor for falls in older people, and are associated with difficulty performing activities of daily living. With an increasing demand for cost-effective and high-quality clinical services, wearable technology can be strategic [...] Read more.

Foot and ankle disorders are a very common diseases, represent a risk factor for falls in older people, and are associated with difficulty performing activities of daily living. With an increasing demand for cost-effective and high-quality clinical services, wearable technology can be strategic in extending our reach to patients with foot and ankle disorders. In recent years, wearable sensors have been increasingly utilized to assess the clinical outcomes of surgery, rehabilitation, and orthotic treatments. This article highlights recent achievements and developments in wearable sensor-based foot and ankle clinical assessment. An increasing number of studies have established the feasibility and effectiveness of wearable technology tools for foot and ankle disorders. Different methods and outcomes for feasibility studies have been introduced, such as satisfaction and efficacy in rehabilitation, surgical, and orthotic treatments. Currently, the widespread application of wearable sensors in clinical fields is hindered by a lack of robust evidence; in fact, only a few tests and analysis protocols are validated with cut-off values reported in the literature. However, nowadays, these tools are useful in quantifying clinical results before and after clinical treatments, providing useful data, also collected in real-life conditions, on the results of therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Innovative Applications of Wearable Sensors in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Rehabilitation

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (15 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI