Real-Time Auditory Feedback-Induced Adaptation to Walking Among Seniors Using the Heel2Toe Sensor: Proof-of-Concept Study.

This was a very small proof-of-concept study with six participants, so it cannot show whether the sensor works in a larger group. The study used a pre-post design, so it cannot show whether the sensor alone caused the changes. Participants also received home exercises for flexibility, strength, core strength, and trunk rotation, so the contribution of the sensor cannot be separated from the exercises. Training duration was participant-determined and a trainer was always present during training sessions, so results may not reflect independent home use. Posttraining gait was assessed within 1 week of the last training session, so longer-term carryover was not measured. Participants were selected if they could walk without an aid and had no cognitive impairments, so findings may not apply to more impaired seniors. The sensor and algorithm were in development, and some usability questions were not applicable.

Authors KKVM, AA-S, and NEM are cofounders of Physio Biometrics Inc, and the Heel2Toe sensor is one of the products that will be commercialized.

Do not conclude that the Heel2Toe sensor alone improves walking. The study had six participants, used a pre-post design, and gave sensor walking together with home exercises, so the sensor effect cannot be separated.