A Comparison of Joint Kinematics Measurements of Treadmill Walking and Even Ground Walking with a Sensor-Based System: Progress Report
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Physical Therapy
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
John Lee
Abstract:
Background: The integration of digital insoles in health and wellness fields offers promising avenues for enhancing patient care through advanced monitoring of gait, posture, and activity levels. This study aims to examine the efficacy and applications of digital insole technology, specifically comparing its use on even ground and treadmills.
Methods: Approved by the Kean Institutional Review Board (IRB) in December 2023, this ongoing study engages in active recruitment and data collection. Potential participants are identified through a preliminary questionnaire distributed via the Co-Principal Investigators' email, followed by scheduling for a 30-minute data collection session in the on-campus Physical Therapy Lab. Safety screenings are conducted before participants walk on even ground for 30 seconds and on treadmills for 2 minutes, wearing shoes equipped with digital insoles.
Analysis: The study focuses on a detailed evaluation of walking with the DigitSole digital insoles in two different settings: even ground and treadmill. It assesses multiple gait parameters, such as inversion and eversion angles, as well as foot progression angles.
Result: Findings will highlight the benefits and limitations of digital insoles, contributing to our understanding of their practical applications in health and wellness contexts, especially concerning in which setting these data can be collected.
Conclusion: By comparing the use of digital insoles on even ground and treadmills, this research will provide insights into the versatility and effectiveness of these technologies in real-world settings. Further dissemination of the research findings will follow the completion of the project, aiming to inform future developments in digital health tools.