Initial biomechanical evaluation of wearable tactile feedback system for gait rehabilitation in peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a significant public health concern, resulting in abnormal gait biomechanics, diminished postural stability, and increased risk of falls. A wearable tactile feedback system previously developed for sensory augmentation of prosthetic limbs has been adapted for individuals with PN and evaluated in a pilot group of 4 participants with idiopathic bilateral PN, as well as one with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease. Participants were assessed both for their abilities to perceive tactile stimuli, and for the effect of tactile biofeedback on their gait. Preliminary data indicate that most participants could localize tactile stimuli and make meaningful modifications to their gait in real time, but that the effect of feedback on gait was highly variable from subject to subject, demanding further investigation.