Objective Methods of Monitoring Usage of Orthotic Devices for the Extremities: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Science
• Orthotics and Prosthetics

Background:

• Orthoses are vital for managing musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, but patient adherence is often poor.
• Lack of objective compliance monitoring hinders accurate assessment of orthotic treatment efficacy.
• This review focuses on objective methods for measuring orthotic device usage.

Approach:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major scientific databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, MEDLINE).
• Twenty-three studies utilizing various sensor technologies to track orthosis use were included in the review.
• Methods covered upper limb, hip, and lower limb orthoses.

Key Points:

• Objective compliance measurement employed sensors like temperature, pressure, accelerometers, and step counters.
• Each sensor type presents unique advantages and limitations, requiring selection based on study parameters.
• Sensor data provides valuable quantitative insights into orthotic device wear patterns.

Conclusions:

• Sensor-derived monitoring offers objective, quantitative data essential for clinical and research applications.
• Combining objective sensor data with patient-reported outcomes provides a comprehensive view of orthotic treatment adherence.
• Future strategies should integrate both objective and subjective measures for optimal orthotic management.