Evaluation of a Wearable “Smart Socks” Gait Monitoring System for Improving Rehabilitation

Abstract

Research Objectives: To evaluate Sensoria Smart Socks, a new commercially available wireless technology, as a feasible tool for monitoring gait. Design(s): Gait Analysis Method Comparison Study. Setting(s): Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic. Participant(s): 20 participants with neurological conditions were enrolled. Participant ages ranged from 29 to 89. Each participant wore the Smart Socks and walked across the Gait Rite mat to allow simultaneous data collection from both gait monitoring systems. Intervention(s): N/A. Main Outcome Measure(s): We compared the data output from the Smart Socks to the GAIT Rite system, a standard tool for monitoring gait in the clinic. Four gait variables were compared: pace (min/mile), foot contact time (ms), step count and cadence (step/min). Because the GAIT Rite facilitates continuous gait measurements of approximately 5 meters distance at a time, this study was used to determine the Smart Sock's ability to accurately depict gait measured over short distances. Result(s): Preliminary results from t-test analysis indicate that the measurement of pace, foot contact time, and step count were comparable between the Smart Socks and GAITRite systems (p > 0.05). Bland-Altman plots were used to further compare the two systems. Conclusion(s): Initial results suggest that the Smart Socks system may be a feasible wearable tool for wireless gait monitoring. Further investigation is warranted to determine the efficacy and clinical value of using the Smart Socks system for monitoring gait over longer distances during daily activity outside of the clinic.