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Wireless Foot Pressure Monitoring System for Gait Rehabilitation

Conference Paper · September 2024

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 5th International Conference on Engineering and Applied
Natural Sciences
August 25-26, 2024 : Konya, Turkey

© 2024 Published by All Sciences Academy https://www.iceans.org/

Wireless Foot Pressure Monitoring System for Gait Rehabilitation

Serhat Küçükdermenci *,1
1
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Balikesir University, 10463, Balikesir, Turkey

*kucukdermenci@balikesir.edu.tr

Abstract –In the realm of healthcare and sports, monitoring foot pressure distribution is crucial for effective
rehabilitation and performance enhancement. This study presents a wireless foot pressure monitoring
system designed for gait rehabilitation. The system employs an in-sole sensor, consisting of four Force
Sensing Resistors (FSRs) placed at certain points on the foot and a gyro meter to monitor foot inclination
across the x, y, and z axes. Data from these sensors are transmitted wirelessly via a Bluetooth module,
allowing for real-time analysis of gait patterns. The system includes two key components: the Foot Posture
Data Sender, which captures and transmits sensor data, and the Foot Posture Control Center, which
visualizes the data through LED meters and an LCD display. The primary objective of this system is to
assist healthcare professionals in tracking patients' rehabilitation progress. By providing quantitative data
on foot pressure and inclination, the system aids in the accurate assessment of gait, helping to prevent long-
term injuries and facilitating effective recovery strategies post-surgery. This innovative approach addresses
the limitations of traditional visual and manual methods, offering a more precise and technologically
advanced solution for gait rehabilitation. Through simulations conducted in Proteus, the system
demonstrates the feasibility of monitoring and analyzing foot pressure remotely, making it a valuable tool
for enhancing patient care and improving outcomes in rehabilitation therapy.

Keywords –Foot Pressure Monitoring, Gait Rehabilitation, In-sole Sensor System, Wireless Health Monitoring, Force Sensing
Resistors (FSR), Arduino Uno

I. INTRODUCTION
Foot posture and gait analysis are critical components in both healthcare and sports, playing a vital role
in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of lower limb injuries. The distribution of pressure across the
plantar surface of the foot provides essential insights into a person's gait, which can be used to inform
rehabilitation strategies following orthopedic surgery, sports injuries, or chronic conditions affecting
mobility. As the global population ages and the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders rises, there is an
increasing need for innovative solutions that can enhance patient outcomes and reduce the burden on
healthcare systems.
Widely recognized for its versatility, the Arduino and Raspberry Pi platform has been effectively used in
a variety of healthcare and assistive technology applications, such as smart gloves for sign language
translation, smart wheelchairs for the elderly and disabled, and Braille interpreters for the visually impaired.
Similarly, platforms such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi have also been used in projects related to water
quality testing, wireless firefighting robots, and weather monitoring systems [1]–[12]. In the context of gait
rehabilitation, the integration of Arduino with foot pressure sensors and gyroscopes exemplifies how such
technologies can be used to monitor and enhance patient recovery processes. The inclusion of wireless
communication further highlights the potential of these platforms in healthcare by enabling real-time
monitoring and data collection.

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 Crea et al. [13] introduced a novel pressure-sensitive foot insole designed for real-time monitoring of
plantar pressure distribution during walking. This system utilizes flexible sensors that provide
comprehensive gait analysis capabilities, enabling clinicians to assess patient movement patterns
effectively. The insole's wireless functionality enhances its usability, allowing for continuous monitoring
without the constraints of wired systems. Prasanth et al. [14] emphasized the importance of low-cost and
flexible plantar pressure monitoring systems tailored for everyday use. The accessibility of such
technologies is crucial as it broadens the scope of preventive care in various populations. Gerlach et al. [15]
also contributed to the discourse on cost-effective solutions by presenting a printed MWCNT-PDMS-
composite pressure sensor system. This innovative approach aims to monitor plantar pressure showcasing
the viability of flexible materials in developing wearable technology. The findings underscore the
importance of affordability and adaptability in the design of monitoring systems for broader application.
Yi et al. [16] developed a stable in-shoe wireless plantar pressure measurement system that captures
dynamic pressure distribution in real-time. This advancement addresses the need for accurate and timely
data collection in gait analysis, facilitating better decision-making in rehabilitation strategies. Similarly,
Yang et al. [17] introduced a new gait phase detection system, which utilizes wireless sensorized insoles
for continuous monitoring. Their work emphasizes the capability of such systems to not only measure
pressure but also analyze gait phases, providing deeper insights into the biomechanics of walking. This
continuous monitoring is vital for tailoring rehabilitation protocols to individual needs. González et al. [18]
presented an ambulatory system for gait monitoring based on wireless sensorized insoles. Their research
highlighted the system's effectiveness in providing comprehensive feedback on gait mechanics, which is
essential for both clinical assessments and personal rehabilitation programs. The integration of wireless
technology allows for unobtrusive monitoring, promoting adherence among users.
Traditional methods of gait analysis typically rely on visual observation and manual techniques, which,
while useful, are prone to human error and lack quantitative precision. Recent advancements in biomedical
technology have introduced more sophisticated tools for gait analysis, yet many of these systems are either
too expensive, too complex for routine clinical use, or limited to laboratory settings.
To address these challenges, this study proposes a wireless foot pressure monitoring system designed to
provide real-time, quantitative data on foot pressure distribution and foot posture during gait. The system
consists of an in-sole sensors, including four Force Sensing Resistors (FSRs) strategically placed at key
points on the foot, and a gyro meter to monitor foot inclination in three dimensions. The data collected by
these sensors is processed by an onboard microcontroller and transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth to a
control center, where it is visualized and analyzed.
This system offers several advantages over traditional methods and existing technologies. It is portable,
allowing for continuous monitoring of the patient's gait, which is crucial for effective rehabilitation. The
wireless transmission of data ensures that patients can move freely while still being monitored, and the
quantitative nature of the data enables more precise assessments of gait patterns, reducing the risk of long-
term complications and improving recovery outcomes.
The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed system in monitoring and
analyzing foot pressure and posture, thereby providing a valuable tool for healthcare professionals involved
in gait rehabilitation. By leveraging this technology, clinicians can make more informed decisions about
patient care, ultimately leading to faster recovery times and better overall health outcomes.
II.MATERIALS AND METHOD
This study focuses on the development and implementation of a wireless foot pressure monitoring system
designed for gait rehabilitation. The system comprises two main components: the Foot Posture Data Sender
and the Foot Posture Control Center, both of which were simulated using the Proteus simulation software.
A. Materials
Arduino Uno: The Arduino Uno microcontroller was used in both the Foot Posture Data Sender and the
Foot Posture Control Center. It serves as the central processing unit, handling data from the sensors and
controlling the output devices.

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 Force Sensing Resistors (FSRs): Four analog Force Sensing Resistors were employed to measure the
pressure at different points of the foot. These sensors were placed in the shoe at the toe (A point), midfoot
(B point), midfoot (C point), and heel (D point) regions.
4067 Multiplexer: A 4067 multiplexer was utilized to manage the input signals from the four FSR sensors.
This component allows the system to read multiple sensor inputs using a single analog pin on the Arduino
Uno, making the system scalable.
Gyro meter: A gyro meter was used to measure the foot's inclination across the x, y, and z axes. This data
is crucial for monitoring the foot's posture during gait.
HC-05 Bluetooth Module: The HC-05 Bluetooth module facilitated wireless communication between the
Foot Posture Data Sender and the Foot Posture Control Center. This module was responsible for
transmitting sensor data to the control center for real-time analysis.
LED Meters: Four LED meters, each based on the LM3914 integrated circuit, were used in the Foot
Posture Control Center to visually represent the pressure data received from the FSRs. The number of
illuminated LEDs corresponds to the pressure detected by each sensor.
16x4 LCD Display with I2C Module: A 16x4 LCD display with an I2C module was incorporated into the
Foot Posture Control Center to display the sensor values in a user-friendly format. The LCD shows the
pressure values from the FSRs and the inclination data from the gyro meter.
Proteus Simulation Software: Proteus was used to simulate the entire system, enabling the testing and
validation of the design before implementation in a real-world scenario.
Virtual Serial Port Driver: This software tool was used to create a virtual connection between COM1 and
COM2 ports, simulating the Bluetooth communication between the Foot Posture Data Sender and the Foot
Posture Control Center.
B. Method
The system was designed with two interconnected modules: the Foot Posture Data Sender (see Figure 1),
which collects and transmits data, and the Foot Posture Control Center (see Figure 2), which receives,
processes, and displays the data. The schematic of the system was created in the Proteus software.
In the Foot Posture Data Sender, four FSRs were placed at strategic locations on the foot to measure
pressure. These sensors were connected to the Arduino Uno via a 4067 multiplexer, allowing the
microcontroller to sequentially read data from each sensor using a single analog input pin (A0).
Additionally, three potentiometers were used to simulate the x, y, and z axes of the gyro meter, connected
to analog pins A1, A2, and A3 of the Arduino Uno.
The data collected from the FSRs and gyro meter was processed by the Arduino and then formatted into
a string for transmission. The HC-05 Bluetooth module was used to wirelessly send this data to the Foot
Posture Control Center. The Arduino code was written to continuously read the sensor values, format them
into a comma-separated string, and transmit them via Bluetooth. (see Figure 3-left)
The Foot Posture Control Center was designed to receive the transmitted data via another HC-05
Bluetooth module. Upon receiving the data, the Arduino Uno in the control center parsed the string to
extract individual sensor values.
The extracted pressure values from the FSRs were then mapped to corresponding PWM signals using the
map() function in the Arduino IDE. These PWM signals were sent to the four LED meters, where the
intensity of the LEDs visually represented the pressure levels detected by the sensors.
Simultaneously, the gyro meter data (x, y, z inclination values) and the FSR values were displayed on the
16x4 LCD screen, providing a comprehensive overview of the foot’s posture and pressure distribution.
Before running the simulation, the Virtual Serial Port Driver was used to establish a virtual connection
between the COM1 and COM2 ports. This setup simulated the wireless communication between the Foot
Posture Data Sender and the Foot Posture Control Center. (see Figure 3-right)

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Fig. 1 Schematic capture diagram of the data sender system for wireless foot pressure monitoring

Fig. 2 Schematic capture diagram of the control center system for real-time gait analysis

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 The Proteus simulation was then executed, with real-time adjustments made to the FSRs and gyro meter
values. The transmitted data was observed on the LCD display and the LED meters at the control center.
The effectiveness of the system in accurately transmitting and visualizing the foot pressure and posture data
was evaluated through these tests.
The data obtained from the simulation was analyzed to assess the system’s accuracy and responsiveness
in detecting and displaying foot pressure and posture changes. The effectiveness of the LED meters and
LCD display in conveying this information was also reviewed, ensuring that the system provided a clear
and intuitive interface for monitoring gait rehabilitation progress.

Fig. 3 Flowchart of the data sender system for wireless foot pressure monitoring (left)
Flowchart of the control center system for real-time gait analysis (right)

III. RESULTS
The wireless foot pressure monitoring system was successfully designed and simulated using the Proteus
software, achieving the objectives outlined in the study. The results are presented in the following sections,
focusing on the performance of the Foot Posture Data Sender, the wireless communication system, and the
Foot Posture Control Center.
The Foot Posture Data Sender module, which includes the four Force Sensing Resistors (FSRs) and the
gyro meter, was effectively simulated. The FSRs accurately detected pressure changes at the designated
points on the foot (toe, right midfoot, left midfoot, and heel). The simulated pressure values were
successfully read by the Arduino Uno via the 4067 multiplexer, and the data from the gyro meter was also
accurately captured across the x, y, and z axes using the connected potentiometers.
The sensor data was then formatted into a string and transmitted wirelessly via the HC-05 Bluetooth
module. The Foot Posture Data Sender demonstrated reliable performance in collecting and transmitting
the foot pressure and posture data without significant delays or errors in the simulation environment.
The wireless communication between the Foot Posture Data Sender and the Foot Posture Control Center
was evaluated using the virtual COM port setup in Proteus. The HC-05 Bluetooth modules successfully
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transmitted the formatted sensor data string from the Foot Posture Data Sender to the Foot Posture Control
Center. The connection was stable, with no loss of data during transmission.
The results indicate that the system can effectively support real-time wireless data transmission, essential
for practical applications in gait monitoring and rehabilitation.
The Foot Posture Control Center received the transmitted data and correctly parsed it to extract individual
sensor values. These values were then mapped to PWM signals and displayed on the LED meters. The LED
meters provided a clear and intuitive visual representation of the foot pressure distribution, with the number
of illuminated LEDs corresponding to the pressure detected by each FSR.
In addition to the LED meters, the 16x4 LCD display with the I2C module effectively displayed the sensor
values, including the pressure at each point and the gyro meter readings for foot inclination. The LCD
provided a real-time, easy-to-read interface for monitoring the foot's posture and pressure distribution,
confirming that the system can be used to track and assess gait rehabilitation progress accurately.
The LED meters and LCD display provided reliable feedback on the foot's condition, indicating that the
system could serve as a valuable tool for clinicians and therapists in monitoring and evaluating gait
rehabilitation. The successful simulation confirms the system's ability to deliver quantitative and qualitative
data, which is critical for assessing the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs.
IV. DISCUSSION
The development and successful simulation of the Wireless Foot Pressure Monitoring System for Gait
Rehabilitation present significant implications for both healthcare and sports industries. This system
addresses key challenges in gait analysis and rehabilitation, offering a novel approach to monitoring foot
pressure and posture in real-time, remotely, and with quantitative precision.
Traditional methods for gait analysis often rely on visual assessments and manual techniques, which are
subjective and prone to human error. These methods do not provide quantitative data, making it difficult to
accurately assess and monitor a patient’s progress during rehabilitation. The proposed system, with its in-
sole sensors and wireless communication capabilities, offers a marked improvement by delivering precise,
real-time data that can be used to track and adjust rehabilitation programs. This quantitative approach
ensures more accurate assessments, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.
The integration of Force Sensing Resistors (FSRs) and a gyro meter within the in-sole sensor system
allows for comprehensive monitoring of foot pressure and posture. The use of a multiplexer enhances the
system's flexibility, allowing for the easy adjustment of the number of sensors, which can be tailored to
different applications or patient needs. The wireless communication enabled by the HC-05 Bluetooth
module further enhances the system’s usability, providing a convenient way to transmit data without the
need for cumbersome wiring.
The system's design also leverages existing technologies, such as Arduino microcontrollers and Proteus
simulation software, which are widely accessible and well-supported in the developer and research
communities. This ensures that the system can be easily replicated, modified, and potentially scaled for
larger studies or commercial applications.
The real-time data provided by the system allows for immediate feedback, which can be crucial for
adjusting rehabilitation exercises and preventing further injury. The ability to monitor patients remotely
also supports the growing trend of telemedicine, enabling healthcare providers to extend their reach and
offer continuous care without requiring patients to be physically present in a clinic.
Moreover, the system’s ability to differentiate between normal and pathological gait patterns could be
particularly useful in diagnosing and treating various orthopedic conditions. By providing detailed data on
how a patient’s foot interacts with the ground, clinicians can make more informed decisions about the best
course of treatment, whether that involves surgery, physical therapy, or other interventions. Additionally,
while the simulation demonstrates the system's potential, actual implementation in clinical settings would
require extensive testing and validation to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Future research should focus on refining the system’s design to address the identified limitations. This
could involve testing the system with different types of footwear and conducting clinical trials to validate
the system’s effectiveness in real-world settings.
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There is also potential for integrating additional sensors to monitor other aspects of gait, such as ankle or
knee movement, which could provide a more comprehensive analysis. Machine learning algorithms could
be employed to analyze the data collected by the system, offering predictive insights that could further
enhance patient care.
V. CONCLUSION
The development and simulation of the Wireless Foot Pressure Monitoring System for Gait Rehabilitation
have demonstrated the potential to significantly enhance the process of gait analysis and rehabilitation. By
integrating force sensors and a gyro meter within an in-sole system, and utilizing wireless communication
through a Bluetooth module, this system provides a real-time, quantitative method for monitoring foot
pressure and posture. This represents a substantial improvement over traditional, subjective methods of gait
analysis, offering precise data that can be used to tailor rehabilitation programs more effectively.
In conclusion, the Wireless Foot Pressure Monitoring System holds significant potential to revolutionize
gait rehabilitation by providing healthcare professionals with the tools to offer more accurate, personalized,
and effective care. As technology continues to advance, this system could become a standard tool in
rehabilitation practices, contributing to improved patient outcomes and a higher quality of life for those
undergoing gait rehabilitation.
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