Concurrent validity of footswitches analysis for the measurement of temporal gait parameters

Abstract

The GAITRite ® system, according to the published data, appears to be an easy to use and validated device for gait analysis. However, it only allows acquisitions on short distances in a nonecological environment. In addition to this device, it could be interesting to use new embarked evaluation tools. The main aim of this study was to examine the concurrent validity of temporal parameters recorded by the portable Zero Wire, AURION ® footswitch system in comparison to the GAITRite ® mat. In a single center prospective study, 40 healthy subjects were included. Each subject had to walk at three different speeds (slow, normal, max) and temporal gait parameters were recorded at the same time by each system. To measure the validity of the footswitch system, we calculated inter class correlation coefficient (ICC) for each temporal parameter (step and cycle time, cadence, % of stance, % of single support, % of swing). Gait parameters recorded at maximum gait velocity showed the best concordance between the two assessments, with a majority of parameters demonstrating a very good validity (ICC > 0.91). At slow speed, the analysis revealed excellent results for gait cadence and step and cycle times, whereas validity was good (ICC > 0.71) to moderate (ICC > 0.51) for the other parameters. The validity profile was a little worse at normal speed, especially for % of swing and % of stance. The Zero Wire, AURION ® , portable footswitch system, is a valid for temporal gait parameters assessment, particularly considering raw parameters. It provides the opportunity to assess gait parameters and variability in ecological conditions, particularly in dual-task gait protocols.