Validity testing of the new innovative gait analysis system RehaWatch from Hasomed

Background. Using a variety of gait analysis techniques parameters which cannot be detected by observation can now be measured and displayed as precise data. For the measurement of predominantly kinetic parameters either force plate systems or flexible pressure measuring insoles are used. Material and methods. The intention of this study was to validate the function of the gait analysis system RehaWatch (R). For this purpose different parameters were first compared with those of the approved gait analysis system Medilogic (R) and then tested for correlation. Results. The data for stride time showed a high correlation and therefore a high validity. The parameters stride length and gait velocity were satisfactory concerning validity. The parameters left and right stance times were below 0.5 and therefore insufficiently valid. Conclusions. For the parameters stride length, stride time and gait velocity the Pearson correlation test showed good to very good results for validity on normal ground as well as on soft ground. The differences detected were within a clinically tolerable range. From our point of view the new gait analysis system RehaWatch (R) is suitable for monitoring the course in the clinical routine. Nevertheless, further tests of RehaWatch (R) are necessary prior to its use on patients.