Roessingh Researchers Move Stroke Gait Analysis Beyond the Lab
Researchers at Roessingh are testing wearable sensors to track gait patterns in patients outside controlled laboratory settings. The study forms part of the MedZO-project SMART and addresses the distinct limitations of traditional motion labs, where patients frequently alter their movement because they know they are being observed.
The Artificial Realities of Motion Labs
Traditional motion labs create artificial conditions that compromise clinical assessments. Erik Prinsen, head of Research & Innovation at Roessingh, pointed directly to this disconnect.
“Patients often walk differently in these settings compared to real-world scenarios, such as turning around or navigating uneven surfaces,” Prinsen said. That discrepancy restricts the accuracy of rehabilitation evaluations, forcing a shift toward more natural monitoring tools.
The sources describe specific examples of real-world movements, such as stopping before a door or adjusting gait on uneven surfaces, which traditional labs fail to capture. Prinsen emphasized that “people know they are being observed and often walk differently than at home.”
Wearable Sensors Measure Gait in Real-World Settings
The project assesses whether wearable sensors can reliably measure gait across therapy sessions, on rehabilitation wards, and eventually at home.
Patients and care professionals collaborate to identify which movement metrics are most relevant for recovery. This input shapes the project’s focus on practical, real-world data.
Balancing Technical Precision with Clinical Utility
The research team is actively testing sensor accuracy while figuring out how the gathered data can inform treatment adjustments. Prinsen stated that the team prioritizes “how this information adds value for patients and caregivers.” Ultimately, the project’s success relies on balancing strict technical precision with practical clinical applications.
The sensors are being evaluated for reliability in diverse environments, including during therapy and on wards. Researchers also explore how additional data from the sensors can enhance treatment planning.
Experts Use Patient Feedback to Refine Rehabilitation
The multidisciplinary project relies on patient feedback to determine which movement metrics matter most for recovery. By integrating real-world data, the team aims to refine rehabilitation strategies and improve outcomes for stroke survivors.
Prinsen collaborates with movement scientist and program manager Corien Nikamp and physiotherapist and doctoral candidate Ruth Huurneman. Their combined expertise guides the project’s technical and clinical development.
If the trial succeeds, the research could transition gait analysis from sterile lab environments into daily life, providing a more dynamic view of recovery.
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