Evaluating the Effectiveness of Rhythmic Vibrotactile and Auditory Stimulation for a Biofeedback Gait Training System for Individuals with Lower Limb Amputation

Individuals with lower limb amputation (LLA) often exhibit asymmetrical gait patterns, which can be a result of insufficient gait training. This often leads to secondary musculoskeletal problems, including joint degeneration and osteoarthritis. A wearable biofeedback system using rhythmic stimulation can enhance motor learning through the synchronization of gait and an external rhythm. This can encourage symmetrical walking patterns and provide supplemental physiotherapy to this population. Here, able-bodied adults with an induced ankle-weight asymmetry are provided rhythmic vibrotactile stimulation (RVS) and rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) to improve stance time symmetry ratio (STSR). RVS and RAS improved STSR, without worsening cadence, velocity, and stride length. RVS showed statistically significant changes in improving STSR. Evaluating if rhythmic stimulation is effective in improving gait symmetry is an integral step in developing an innovative and widely accessible biofeedback system that can enhance the mobility and quality of life of individuals with LLA.M.A.S.2022-03-15 00:00:0