The Effects of 3D Custom Foot Orthotics with Mechanical Plantar Stimulation in Older Individuals with Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Recent scientific evidence supports the idea that foot plantar stimulation increases the functional connectivity of brain regions involved in visuo-spatial and sensory-motor integration. In this before–after, non-randomised intervention study we assessed the change in several gait and postural parameters using inertial sensor measurements after acute plantar stimulation using custom 3D-printed insoles. The pilot study was performed on 22 institutionalised, older individuals with a high comorbidity burden who either walked autonomously or with the help of a cane. The intensity of the effects in the first mechanical plantar stimulation session (at one week) strongly predicted a change in the 180° turn duration (p < 0.05) and the standard deviation of the step duration (p < 0.05) during the timed up-and-go test. Based on these effects, researchers also predicted decreases in some postural parameters such as the root mean square of displacement on the anterior–posterior axis (p < 0.01). Thus, these preliminary findings provide a strong rationale for performing controlled clinical trials with larger samples to investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of mechanical plantar stimulation in frail elderly individuals.

Gait Assessment Using Smartphone Applications in Older Adults: A Scoping Review

“…Biomechanical investigation allows the identification of abnormalities in gait that may also impact the quality of life and mobility of older adults [ 31 ]. One of the most important spatiotemporal parameters that seems to decline significantly in older patients is gait speed [ 21 , 22 , 32 , 33 ]. The emergence of technologies such as smartphones, mobile apps and artificial intelligence has provided promising avenues for gait analysis that had previously been performed in laboratories with a set of measurement systems such as stereophotogrammetry, EMG and force platforms [ 34 ].…”

Potential Prodromal Digital Postural Sway Markers for Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS) Detected via Dual-Tasking and Sensory Manipulation

“…Examining postural control under conditions of altered sensory input and DT has the potential to translate findings into neurorehabilitation approaches designed to improve balance and gait in FXTAS. For example, tactile stimulation to the plantar surface of the feet with textured or vibratory insoles and/or open or closed-looped tactile feedback may improve gait and postural control in neurologic disorders including Parkinson’s disease (PD) [ 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 ] and multiple sclerosis [ 24 , 27 ] and in the elderly with cognitive impairment [ 28 ]. DT training programs also have been shown to improve gait and balance in neurodegenerative disorders such as PD [ 29 ].…”