Gait Alteration in Individual with Limb Loss: The Role of Inertial Sensors

Sensors (Basel). 2023 Feb 7;23(4):1880. doi: 10.3390/s23041880.

Abstract

Amputation has a big impact on the functioning of patients, with negative effects on locomotion and dexterity. In this context, inertial measurement units represent a useful tool in clinical practice for motion analysis, and in the development of personalized aids to improve a patient's function. To date, there is still a gap of knowledge in the scientific literature on the application of inertial sensors in amputee patients. Thus, the aim of this narrative review was to collect the current knowledge on this topic and stimulate the publication of further research. Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library publications were screened until November 2022 to identify eligible studies. Out of 444 results, we selected 26 articles focused on movement analysis, risk of falls, energy expenditure, and the development of sensor-integrated prostheses. The results showed that the use of inertial sensors has the potential to improve the quality of life of patients with prostheses, increasing patient safety through the detection of gait alteration; enhancing the socio-occupational reintegration through the development of highly technologic and personalized prosthesis; and by monitoring the patients during daily life to plan a tailored rehabilitation program.

Keywords: amputation; inertial measurement unit; rehabilitation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amputation, Surgical
  • Amputees*
  • Gait
  • Humans
  • Locomotion
  • Quality of Life

Grants and funding

Project funded under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.5—Call for tender No. 3277 of 30/12/2021 of Italian Ministry of University and Research funded by the European Union—NextGenerationEU. Award Number: Project code ECS00000033, Concession Decree No. 1052 of 23/06/2022 adopted by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, CUP D93C22000460001, “Ecosystem for Sustainable Transition in Emilia-Romagna” (Ecosister).