Digital Gait Analysis in the Home Environment of Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

The aim of this study is the development of novel telemedical examination methods based on sensor-based gait analysis in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). In a first step, the basic technical feasibility of measuring gait parameters in MS patients under standardized conditions in the clinic and in the home environment of the study participants will be investigated. In a subsequent two-week study phase, gait parameters (real-life monitoring) and standardized gait tests will be continuously recorded in the home environment of the study participants. The comparability of the collected gait parameters from standardized gait tests and real-life monitoring to clinical scales (e.g. EDSS) will investigate the medical applicability of gait analysis as a target parameter in MS patients. New algorithms for detecting indication-specific gait patterns from gait analysis in patients' daily lives and their possible changes over time (progression) will be explored and implemented into the study system. In addition, a patient app annotates the standardized gait tests and collects questionnaire-based data from the study participants during real-life monitoring. Via a study tablet, the data of the gait analysis and the patient app are transmitted to a study platform (Digital Patient Manager). The clinical assessment data (neurological examination, questionnaires) can be entered via a web front-end of the study platform and assigned to the patient via a pseudonym. A further aim of this study is to validate the technology used for its applicability in the home environment. By means of structured interviews after the study phase, the study participants will be asked about compliance and adherence. The following scientific questions will be investigated in this project: (a) Is gait analysis a feasible and meaningful target parameter for MS centers? b) Are gait parameters from real-life monitoring suitable biomarkers for the detection of MS symptoms? c) Can gait parameters from s