Lower Extremity Feedback System (LEFS)

University of Utah Technology Commercialization Office
posted on 03/31/2011

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Invention Summary: The Lower Extremity Ambulation Feedback System (LEAFS) is a shoe-insert device that uses force sensors to evaluate asymmetries in gait, or "limping", and a software application package to provide real-time feedback (tactile, audio, visual, etc) to correct an individual's walking pattern.

Features & Benefits:

* The device and software application work in real world settings

* A silicone based insole with embedded sensors is durable, flexible and easy to use

* An inexpensive solution compared to the clinical motion analysis laboratory

* Improves overall appearance of the gait, reduces metabolic energy consumption, development of osteoarthritis, skin breakdown, non-healing wounds and osteomyelitis

Market Opportunity

Most of the one million lower-limb amputees in the US need assistance in relearning how to walk, perform physical activities and correct their gait. For example, asymmetry of gait or "limping" is a common problem that can be caused by uneven distribution of weight, as well as unequal time spent on the left and right feet during stance. Gait asymmetry has been shown to increase with walking speed, and it is believed that asymmetry may account for greater instances of joint degeneration in the intact limb of unilateral amputees. The shoe-insert and software application allow for inexpensive and easy detection of the amount of time that an individual spends on their left foot compared to their right as well as asymmetric distribution of weight and unequal stance time. This portable and inexpensive system can be used by a wide variety of people including amputees, stroke and orthopedic surgery patients to correct their gait by giving real time feedback during normal daily activities.

Intellectual Property: A U.S. patent application 20090240171 has been published

Related Research:
http://mech.utah.edu/people/faculty/stacy-morris-bamberg-assistant-professor/