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Test-retest reliability of trunk accelerometry during standing and walking
1Division of Physiotherapy Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|November 20, 1998
Summary
This study found that portable accelerometers reliably measure balance during standing and walking. This technology offers a practical clinical tool for assessing gait and balance without stationary equipment.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Medical Instrumentation
Background:
- Assessing balance and gait is crucial for clinical evaluation.
- Portable accelerometers offer a potential non-invasive method for measuring movement dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the test-retest reliability of a portable, triaxial accelerometer for measuring balance during standing and walking.
- To determine the utility of accelerometry for clinical balance and gait analysis.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen healthy students performed standing (two feet, one foot, with/without vision) and walking (various speeds, even/uneven ground) tests.
- Acceleration was measured along three axes using a lumbar-mounted accelerometer.
- Measures included acceleration root mean square (RMS), within-subject standard deviation (sw), and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).
Main Results:
- High absolute test-retest repeatability was observed for standing on two feet.
- For single-leg stance, mediolateral acceleration showed the highest reliability (ICC(3,1) = .84).
- Walking tests demonstrated good reliability across all axes (ICC(3,1) = .79–.94) on both even and uneven surfaces.
Conclusions:
- Portable accelerometry is a reliable method for assessing standing balance and gait.
- This technology provides a valuable, equipment-free approach for clinical use.
- Accelerometry shows promise for studying balance and gait in diverse settings.