Abstract

In this paper, a tele-gait monitoring system which consists of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and Smart Shoes is proposed for gait monitoring and rehabilitation. In our previous works, a mobile gait monitoring system (MGMS) was proposed, which utilized the ground reaction forces (GRFs) measured by Smart Shoes. Although the GRF patterns measured by the MGMS provide useful information for the diagnoses of a patient's walking motions, Smart Shoes do not measure the position of the feet, which is necessary for a complete walking motion diagnosis. In the proposed tele-gait monitoring system, an IMU is used in addition to Smart Shoes for a complete observation of walking motions. By analyzing the signals measured by the IMU and Smart Shoes, it is possible to thoroughly diagnose the patient's walking motion, including: the trajectory of the foot, the walking distance, and the length of each stride. Furthermore, the proposed gait monitoring system makes use of the Internet such that physical therapists can monitor their patients' status anywhere anytime.