Does Accelerometry at the Centre of Mass Accurately Predict the Gait Energy Expenditure in Patients with Hemiparesis?

Background: The aim of this study was to compare energy expenditure (EE) predicted by accelerometery (EEAcc) with indirect calorimetry (EEMETA) in individuals hemiparesis. Methods: Twenty-four participants (12 stroke and 12 healthy controls) performed a six-minute walk test (6MWT) during which EEMETA measured using portable system EEACC calculated Bouten’s equation (1993) data from three-axis accelerometer positioned between L3 L4. Results: median 9.85 [8.18;11.89] W·kg−1 the group 5.0 [4.56;5.46] control group. 8.57 [7.86;11.24] 8.2 [7.05;9.56] were not significantly correlated either (p = 0.8) or groups 0.06). Bland–Altman method showed mean difference 1.77 ± 3.65 −2.08 1.59 controls. Conclusions: accuracy EE, based on equations proposed Bouten et al., low hemiparesis impaired gait. This combination (sensor equation) is yet suitable for use as stand-alone measure clinical practice evaluation hemiparetic patients.