Dynamic gait stability index using a fuzzy logic model

Abstract

The field of physical rehabilitation needs a quantitative technique for measuring dynamic gait stability (walking stability) to make decisions regarding treatment, assistive devices, potential for falls, and to track progress during rehabilitation. This measure should be easily applied in a clinical setting, valid across physical disabilities, and must provide a quantitative index that can be used for comparisons over a range of tasks and environments. This research project developed and evaluated a gait stability index using a portable pressure measurement system. This study examined current stability analysis methods and evaluated dynamic gait stability assessment parameters. Six gait parameters were identified and extracted from a commercial foot pressure measurement system (F-Scan). A fuzzy logic controller combined the six parameters and generated an index value. Fifteen healthy subjects were evaluated at four stability levels. All parameter combinations (57 indices in total) were assessed to isolate the most effective index.