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Self-Reported and Performance-Based Outcome Measures Estimation Using Wearables After Unilateral Total Knee
Ik-Hyun Youn1, Todd Leutzinger2, Jong-Hoon Youn3
1Division of Navigation and Information Systems, Mokpo National Maritime University, Mokpo, South Korea.
Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
|December 21, 2020
Summary
Wearable sensors measuring gait can effectively estimate functional outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). These inertial gait variables correlate with performance tests and patient questionnaires, offering a promising alternative to traditional assessments.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common procedure for end-stage knee osteoarthritis, aiming to improve ambulatory function.
- Current functional assessments (questionnaires, performance tests) have limitations, often providing subjective or limited data.
- Wearable sensor-based gait analysis offers a potential solution for objective, real-world monitoring post-TKA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if inertial gait variables from wearable sensors can effectively estimate clinical outcomes in individuals after unilateral TKA.
- To assess the correlation between gait variables and questionnaire, performance (6-min walk, Timed Up and Go, 30-s Chair Stand), and isometric strength measures.
- To identify the contribution of different inertial gait variable categories to predicting clinical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen participants, at least 6 months post-unilateral TKA, underwent two sessions: one for clinical/isometric tests and one for gait analysis.
- Gait patterns were measured using accelerometers worn on the ankles during a 1-minute walk test at self-selected speed.
- Statistical analyses included stepwise and hierarchical regressions to select significant gait variables and examine their predictive contributions.
Main Results:
- Inertial gait variables showed significant correlations with performance test outcomes and patient-reported questionnaire scores.
- No significant correlation was found between inertial gait variables and isometric strength measures.
- Stepwise and hierarchical regressions identified key inertial gait variables that could predict clinical measures.
Conclusions:
- Wearable sensor-based gait analysis shows potential for predicting functional and self-reported outcomes after TKA.
- This technology offers a more objective and comprehensive assessment compared to traditional clinical methods.
- Further research could refine sensor-based gait analysis for personalized TKA rehabilitation and outcome prediction.
