A Signal Processing Method for Assessing Ankle Torque with a Custom-Made Electronic Dynamometer in Participants...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Neurology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) significantly impacts foot and ankle muscle function.
• Accurate assessment of foot and ankle muscle function is crucial for managing chronic conditions.
• Existing dynamometry methods may lack precision for specific patient populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an algorithm for optimizing ankle torque measurement precision.
• To establish a reference frame for ankle torque assessment in healthy individuals and those with DPN.
• To enhance the data processing and interpretation of foot and ankle muscle function.

Main Methods:

• Utilized portable, custom-made electronic dynamometry for ankle torque measurement.
• Developed a software chain for voltage-torque conversion, filtering, and offset detection.
• Implemented an algorithm for muscle effort type identification and primary statistical reporting.

Main Results:

• The study successfully processed and interpreted ankle torque data in participants with and without DPN.
• The developed algorithm demonstrated improved precision in data processing and interpretation.
• A reference frame for ankle torque measurement was defined for both healthy and DPN cohorts.

Conclusions:

• The proposed signal processing algorithm provides a reproducible and precise method for ankle torque assessment.
• This approach allows for detailed parametrization of ankle torque results, aiding clinical evaluation.
• Custom-made electronic dynamometry, coupled with the validated algorithm, offers a promising tool for foot and ankle function assessment.