Validity and reliability of GAITWell portable modular system for gait analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Gait analysis is crucial for rehabilitation but faces accessibility challenges in resource-limited settings.
• Existing systems are often cumbersome and time-consuming.
• GAITWell was developed as a portable, modular system for automated gait data collection and analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the methodological properties of the GAITWell system.
• To assess the test-retest reliability and concurrent validity of GAITWell.
• To identify areas for improvement in sensor accuracy.

Main Methods:

• GAITWell utilizes discrete binary sensors on interconnected plates with a Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) algorithm for data analysis.
• Test-retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of the mean (SEM), and Bland-Altman plots.
• Concurrent validity was determined by comparing GAITWell measurements against the Qualisys Pro-Reflex system in 38 healthy adults.

Main Results:

• Correlations between GAITWell and Qualisys ranged from moderate to very high for key gait parameters like gait speed, cycle time, and step lengths.
• Moderate to good agreement was observed for several parameters, including gait speed and stance/swing times.
• Poor agreement was noted for double support times, cadence, and base of support, indicating areas for refinement.

Conclusions:

• GAITWell demonstrates potential as an accessible gait analysis tool, particularly for gait speed and timing parameters.
• The system exhibits promising reliability and validity, though some parameters require further investigation.
• Enhancing sensor resolution is projected to significantly reduce measurement error and improve overall system reliability.