Body area sensing networks for remote health monitoring

Abstract

This chapter explores the field of remote sensor systems using wearable technologies that play a significant role in monitoring activities of patients in home and community settings. The focus is on body area sensing networks incorporating the primary enabling technologies: sensors for capturing the physiological and kinematic data, and data analysis techniques for extracting the clinically relevant information. With respect to the StrokeBack project, the majority of this chapter is dedicated towards physical activity monitoring-a key component in stroke rehabilitation. In particular, the domain of upper limb rehabilitation is examined since reduction of upper limb motor function is a common effect of stroke and significantly impairs the performance of patients as they engage in activities of daily life. As an example, a case study is presented where different arm movements are recognized in real time using data from inertial sensors attached to the arm. Tracking the occurrences of specific arm movements (e.g. prescribed exercises) over time can give an indication of rehabilitation progress since the frequency of these movements is expected to increase as motor functionality improves.