Evaluation of Seniors Gait Training with Mechatronic Device

Authors present some results from research work on human movement analysis and its use in clinical practice. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the new rehabilitation method for the prevention of falls in the elderly. The basis of new rehabilitation training is walking disturbed by perturbations embedded in shoes. Perturbations are generated with the original mechatronic device developed within project SMILING - Self Mobility Improvement of eLderly by counteractING falls, no. 215493 granted by the 7th framework program–ICT2007.7.1 „ICT and Ageing“. The SMILING system is a complete system for the training of gait [1]. SMILING shoe is a complex mechatronic system, which requires interaction through data obtained from the sensors of mechanical components, as well as data on user's activities. The SMILING shoes are able to change their configuration during the swing phase of gait to propose a different “ground” when the foot touches the floor. According to the basic idea, the SMILING system is not a medical device but a training device. This means that its use is envisaged also in non-protected environments such as fitness centers and/or private homes. The aim of the pilot study was to assess the impact of unconventional rehabilitation system SMILING on gait pattern. Seventeen patients participated in the study (elderly aged 65 and over) provided in Slovakia in cooperation with the Highly Specialized Geriatric Institute of St. Lukas Košice. Gait pattern has been defined through selected temporal-spatial parameters, obtained by measuring walking self-paced by opto-electrical system SMART in laboratory conditions. The results of the three measurements were compared by paired t-test for significance α=0,05. Data showed that after completing the second stage of training exercises walking speed and the length stride have increased and gait cycle was decreased. However, for approval of efficiency of the new rehabilitation method further clinical testing must be done.