Accuracy and Repeatability of Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters Measured with an Inertial Measurement Unit

• Main Authors: Jorge Posada-Ordax, Julia Cosin-Matamoros, Marta Elena Losa-Iglesias, Ricardo Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Laura Esteban-Gonzalo, Carlos Martin-Villa, César Calvo-Lobo, David Rodriguez-Sanz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-04-01
• Series: Journal of Clinical Medicine
• Subjects: accuracy; repeatability; inertial
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/10/9/1804

In recent years, interest in finding alternatives for the evaluation of mobility has increased. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) stand out for their portability, size, and low price. The objective of this study was to examine the accuracy and repeatability of a commercially available IMU under controlled conditions in healthy subjects. A total of 36 subjects, including 17 males and 19 females were analyzed with a Wiva Science IMU in a corridor test while walking for 10 m and in a threadmill at 1.6 km/h, 2.4 km/h, 3.2 km/h, 4 km/h, and 4.8 km/h for one minute. We found no difference when we compared the variables at 4 km/h and 4.8 km/h. However, we found greater differences and errors at 1.6 km/h, 2.4 km/h and 3.2 km/h, and the latter one (1.6 km/h) generated more error. The main conclusion is that the Wiva Science IMU is reliable at high speeds but loses reliability at low speeds.