Novel wireless shoe offers medical monitoring

A revolutionary concept in the form of a high-tech set of shoes is showing much promise for patients who are recuperating from debilitating strokes or sports injuries. The EU-funded WI-SHOE (A novel wireless, wearable shoe-based system for real time monitoring of energy expenditure and gait parameters for sport and medical applications) project is making significant headway in the field. It is developing shoes with sensors in the sole that can measure energy expenditure and gait parameters (gait speed, step length, step frequency) to assess and support recovery.

The envisioned solution works by sending wireless data to the patient's smartphone for interpretation, minimising medical supervision and favouring the idea of home as a care environment. This is the first time that energy expenditure and gait parameters are being integrated in the same solution, reinforcing independence and fostering a more positive state of mind for the recovering patient.

Already, the project team identified end users for the product and kinematic gait parameters that need to be monitored. It outlined maximum dimensions and weight of a shoe for normal walking, and conducted a user survey to fine-tune the product.

Significant progress was also made on developing the WI-SHOE's power subsystem with wireless battery charging, diverse hardware and software components, sole design, data transmission and external memory expansion. This led to the design of the first prototype for testing.

The project team is currently working to improve integration of the various components. It recently finalised an exploitation plan to commercialise the shoe, which boasts excellent market penetration opportunities.

Enabling remote monitoring will represent valuable support to patients recovering from central neurological diseases and fractures. It will also be of benefit to those with diabetic foot, gait problems and lower limb osteoarthritis, ultimately contributing to the well-being of thousands of individuals.