Translational Applications of Wearable Sensors in Education: Implementation and Efficacy

Background: Adding new approaches to teaching curriculums can be both expensive and complex to learn. The aim of this research was to gain insight into students' literacy and confidence in learning sports science with new wearable technologies, specifically a novel program known as STEMfit. Methods: A three-phase design was carried out, with 36 students participating and exposed to wearable devices and associated software. This was to determine whether the technology hardware (phase one) and associated software (phase two) were used in a positive way that demonstrated user confidence. Results: Hardware included choosing a scalable wearable device that worked in conjunction with familiar and readily available software (Microsoft Excel) that extracted data through VBA coding. This allowed for students to experience and provide survey feedback on the usability and confidence gained when interacting with the STEMfit program. Outcomes indicated strong acceptance of the program, with high levels of motivation, resulting in a positive uptake of wearable technology as a teaching tool by students. The initial finding of this study offers an opportunity to further test the STEMfit program on other student cohorts as well as testing the scalability of the system into other year groups at the university level

Determination of ankle and metatarsophalangeal stiffness during walking and jogging

Forefoot stiffness has been shown to influence joint biomechanics. However, little or no data exist on metatarsophalangeal stiffness. Twenty-four healthy rearfoot strike runners were recruited from a staff and student population at the University of Central Lancashire. Five repetitions of shod, self-selected speed level walking, and jogging were performed. Kinetic and kinematic data were collected using retroreflective markers placed on the lower limb and foot to create a 3-segment foot model using the calibrated anatomical system technique. Ankle and metatarsophalangeal moments and angles were calculated. Stiffness values were calculated using a linear best fit line of moment versus of angle plots. Paired t tests were used to compare values between walking and jogging conditions. Significant differences were seen in ankle range of motion, but not in metatarsophalangeal range of motion. Maximum moments were significantly greater in the ankle during jogging, but these were not significantly different at the metatarsophalangeal joint. Average ankle joint stiffness exhibited significantly lower stiffness when walking compared with jogging. However, the metatarsophalangeal joint exhibited significantly greater stiffness when walking compared with jogging. A greater understanding of forefoot stiffness may inform the development of footwear, prosthetic feet, and orthotic devices, such as ankle foot orthoses for walking and sporting activities

Postural management system for bedbound patients

Objectives To explore the potential effectiveness of postural management system considering peak contact pressure and user perceptions. Methods Fifteen healthy participants were screened using a modified Red Flags Screening tool. Conformat® system was used to analyze contact pressure under the shoulder and buttocks and was recorded for 10 minutes in supine and side-lying positions with and without a postural management system. Participants were asked about their comfort and restrictiveness using a numerical rating scale. Results In side-lying position, the peak contact pressure at greater trochanter was significantly lower when a postural management system was applied. In supine position, the peak contact pressure at shoulders was respectively lower. In turn, the peak contact pressure at ischial tuberosity was significantly higher lower when a postural management system was applied. The postural management system did not affect the level of perceived comfort. Participants reported that they felt more restricted with the intervention. Conclusions A postural management system reduced pressure at the shoulders in supine-lying position and at the greater trochanter in side-lying position lowering the risk of pressure injury formation. A postural management system may reduce the economic burden of health problems associated with poor positioning, enhance patient care, and reduce the risks associated with manual handling techniques when repositioning

Assessment and Management of Pain, Alignment, Strength and Stability (PASS) in Patellofemoral Pain and Low Back Pain

Clinical assessment and management of musculoskeletal conditions of different joints may be broken down into considerations of Pain, Alignment, Strength and Stability (PASS). In recent years these factors have allowed a systematic approach and has enabled the development in our understanding of clinical subgroups, which enable targeted or stratified care. This paper considers the use of the PASS concept to determine the most appropriate treatment and interventions, specifically when considering treatment of two common musculoskeletal conditions, patellofemoral pain and low back pain

Postural management system for bedbound patients

Objectives To explore the potential effectiveness of postural management system considering peak contact pressure and user perceptions. Methods Fifteen healthy participants were screened using a modified Red Flags Screening tool. Conformat® system was used to analyze contact pressure under the shoulder and buttocks and was recorded for 10 minutes in supine and side-lying positions with and without a postural management system. Participants were asked about their comfort and restrictiveness using a numerical rating scale. Results In side-lying position, the peak contact pressure at greater trochanter was significantly lower when a postural management system was applied. In supine position, the peak contact pressure at shoulders was respectively lower. In turn, the peak contact pressure at ischial tuberosity was significantly higher lower when a postural management system was applied. The postural management system did not affect the level of perceived comfort. Participants reported that they felt more restricted with the intervention. Conclusions A postural management system reduced pressure at the shoulders in supine-lying position and at the greater trochanter in side-lying position lowering the risk of pressure injury formation. A postural management system may reduce the economic burden of health problems associated with poor positioning, enhance patient care, and reduce the risks associated with manual handling techniques when repositioning