Exploration of Metrics for Leg Length Discrepancy Using a Wearable Gait Analysis System

The purpose of this study was to explore effective metrics for differentiating levels of leg length discrepancy (LLD) using a wearable device. Design: A wearable device for measuring ground reaction forces and kinetic features was developed in this study. Participants: Eight volunteers without previously diagnosed LLD walked along a 120.0 m walkway with a 2.5 cm and 3 cm foot spacer to simulate LLD. Main Outcome Measures: The p-values of thirteen kinetic and kinematic metrics between normal and LLD walking. Results: Difference in stance time duration, difference in heel reposition time, and ratio difference of loading effect showed statistical difference between normal walking and simulated LLD walking. Conclusion: The metrics with statistical difference may serve as effective indicators of low levels of LLD and be implemented into a point-of-care system for gait analysis.