Statistical correlation analysis between kinematic features and clinical indexes and scales for obese patients

Abstract

The study of posture and gait abnormalities has revealed over years potential information to improve the rehabilitation outcome of several classes of ill patients; nevertheless, this results still an area of research almost completely unexplored in the case of obese patients. Consequently, this study was designed as a preliminary investigation to determine potential statistical correlations between kinematic features and “gold standard” methodologies in the field, e.g., the Western Ontario and Mc Master University scale and the Barthel index. To this aim, physicians prepared bioelectrical impedance analyses and clinical assessments to evaluate patients' clinical scores, while biomedical engineers have organized Instrumented Stand and Walking tests to quantify several kinematic features using a microelectromechanical system equipped by a series of inertial measurement units. Finally, a statistical correlation analysis has allowed to reveal several features – related to patients’ anticipatory postural adjustments movements and gait – demonstrated a mild and moderate correlation with some clinical indices. In conclusion, this paper presents a novel view to address and design innovative rehabilitation strategies for obese patients.