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Updated: May 25, 2026
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Evaluation of Changes in Hydration and Body Cell Mass with Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis after Exercise Program for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Published on: July 14, 2023
Activity level classification algorithm using SHIMMER™ wearable sensors for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
Emma Fortune1, Marie Tierney, Cliodhna Ni Scanaill
1Intel Health Research and Innovation Group, Leixlip, Co Kildare, Ireland.
Summary
This study introduces a validated method using SHIMMER sensors to accurately measure physical activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. This advances research by providing reliable data on daily living activities for RA populations.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rheumatology
- Human Movement Science
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression is linked to reduced patient physical activity.
- Existing research on RA physical activity is limited by non-validated outcome measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an algorithm for estimating physical activity levels in RA patients.
- To utilize SHIMMER kinematic sensors for objective physical activity assessment.
Main Methods:
- Development of an algorithm using SHIMMER kinematic sensors (tri-axial gyroscopes and accelerometers).
- Testing the algorithm during a simulated protocol of daily living activities.
- Validation against simultaneously recorded energy expenditure data and the activity protocol.
Main Results:
- The proposed algorithm accurately estimates physical activity levels in RA patients.
- SHIMMER sensor data, processed by the algorithm, provides reliable physical activity metrics.
- Validation confirmed the accuracy of the method against energy expenditure and protocol adherence.
Conclusions:
- SHIMMER kinematic sensors offer a validated tool for accurately assessing physical activity in rheumatoid arthritis.
- This validated method can improve the quality of research into RA and its impact on patient mobility.
