Investigation of Acoustic Signals for Gait Analysis

Background: Previous literature has demonstrated that footstep sounds can be related to the unique gait pattern of individuals. This paper investigates the potential of using footstep sounds as a diagnostic tool in gait analysis. Methods: Fifteen participants ran on a treadmill at 2.7 m/s (6.0 MPH) while simultaneously recording plantar pressure and acoustic signals. Participants repeated the same recordings after completing an exhaustive fatigue protocol, thereby creating a modified gait pattern. Results: The modified gait was evident in the center-of-force trajectory, contact pressures, and acoustic signatures. Analysis of the peak contact pressure and acoustic amplitude showed a modest, statistically significant correlation (r = 0.42, p = 0.02). A method to measure the gait stance time from features in the acoustic signature was tested. Conclusions: The results show that acoustic signals can be used to characterize gait changes, but additional work is needed to link acoustic signal features to gait events like toe lift.