Rethinking Parkinson's gait rehabilitation through wearable sensing and virtual reality
Imagine stepping into a virtual world while sensors embedded in wearable technology track the way that you move outside in the real world. For an individual with Parkinson's disease, this opportunity gives researchers a detailed look into how the disease affects movement and offers insight into how it can be more effectively treated.
A groundbreaking study led by Rui Hua, an assistant professor at Lehigh University's College of Health, is exploring the use of wearable technology and virtual reality to revolutionize Parkinson's disease rehabilitation. Hua, an electrical engineer who specializes in wearable and AI-powered health solutions, is developing a virtual reality platform that can objectively evaluate gait impairments and freezing of gait in Parkinson's patients.
Freezing of gait, a symptom characterized by a temporary inability to move, can lead to falls and reduced independence.
The researchers aim to standardize environments across clinics and incorporate daily life contexts, such as navigating through doorways or hallways, to obtain more accurate data on patients' gait. By analyzing the data collected from wearable sensors, the team hopes to provide clinicians with clinically meaningful insights and develop personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient's needs.
Hua's team includes occupational therapist Carly Haffner, virtual reality specialist Mooi Choo Chuah, and clinical collaborator Jenny Bartoff. The research also involves studying how auditory and tactile cues, such as metronomes, music, and vibrations from smart wearables, can help Parkinson's patients synchronize their steps. While no clear evidence suggests one approach is more effective than another, the study will examine the individual effectiveness of these cues in supporting mobility.
The research team, including graduate and undergraduate students from various disciplines, is actively recruiting participants and collaborating with Good Shepherd Rehabilitation and local Parkinson's support groups to make rehabilitation more accessible and personalized for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.
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