Serial Assessment of Gait Changes After Interventions Using Smart Insole in a Patient With iNPH: A Proof-of-Concept...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Gait Analysis

Background:

• Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) diagnosis relies on gait improvement after a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tap test.
• Traditional quantitative gait analysis is complex and resource-intensive, limiting its clinical application.
• Bluetooth-enabled wearable sensors present a cost-effective alternative for objective gait assessment.

Observation:

• A case study involving a 68-year-old female with iNPH symptoms including gait disturbance, cognitive decline, and urinary frequency.
• Gait was assessed pre- and post-CSF tap test using both conventional methods and a smart insole with pressure sensors and an accelerometer.
• Conventional gait parameters showed no significant change, but the smart insole detected improvements in heel strike, step regularity, and symmetry.

Findings:

• Smart insoles provided objective, sensitive gait data not captured by conventional methods.
• The smart insole data revealed subtle gait improvements post-CSF tap test.
• These objective findings, alongside subjective assessment, supported the decision for surgical intervention.

Implications:

• Smart insoles can enhance clinical decision-making for iNPH patients by providing accessible, detailed gait analysis.
• This technology can facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for iNPH.
• The study highlights the potential of wearable technology in managing neurological disorders and improving patient outcomes.