Advancing Assessment Technologies for Movement Disorders in pwMS

Abstract

Informants highlighted that navigating the healthcare system and ensuring optimal treatment when dealing with several chronic conditions requires considerable time, energy, and resources, which may be sparse when dealing with multimorbidity. They emphasized that MS-specific symptoms such as fatigue and cognitive disabilities further limit their resources. Therefore, they are reliant on personal resources such as education and specialized knowledge, as well as help and support from relatives to navigate the healthcare system and receive optimal treatment and care. Conclusion: PwMS and multimorbidity experience significant personal costs related to their treatment and care. Personal involvement and active participation are essential but difficult for this patient group, especially for those who lack personal resources and support from relatives. Background: This work delves into the advancements of assis-tive technologies that address movement disorders in individuals with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Leveraging recent technological progress, we critically examine the current state of assessment technologies for movement disorders prevalent in neurological conditions and their applicability to MS. Methods: A comprehensive survey involving over 200 publications is conducted to explore various strategies for quantifying symptoms related to movement disorders in pwMS. The study encompasses designing and developing a sensory substitution device tailored explicitly for individuals lacking somatosensation in their feet. A case study is presented involving a pwMS actively engaged in the development process, utilizing robotic skin soles to measure force distribution during balancing and walking. Also, preliminary data on camera-based movement quantification of five pwMS using a simplified setup with video cameras is discussed , along with the exploration of automatic assessment possibilities for physicians. Results: The sensory substitution device, incorporating robotic skin soles and vibrotactile stimulation, achieves a 93.1% accuracy in distinguishing feedback patterns related to various gait cycle phases and balancing conditions. The preliminary data on camera-based movement quantification offers insights into alternative assessment methods for pwMS, where physicians could potentially use it as a remote assessment technique. Conclusions: By presenting these diverse approaches, the study aims to propel advancements in quantifying movement disorders in pwMS. The findings offer valuable insights for physiotherapists and occupational therapists caring for individuals with MS, emphasizing the potential of advancing technologies in enhancing assessment and intervention strategies for movement disorders.