Objective Assessment of Walking Impairments in Myotonic Dystrophy by Means of a Wearable Technology and a Novel Severity Index

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a genetic inherited autosomal dominant disease characterized by multisystem involvement, including muscle, heart, brain, eye, and endocrine system. Although several methods are available to evaluate muscle strength, endurance, dexterity, there no validated outcome measures aimed at objectively evaluating qualitative quantitative gait alterations. Advantageously, wearable sensing technology has been successfully adopted in objectifying the assessment of motor disabilities different medical occurrences, so that here we consider adoption such specifically for DM1. In particular, measured tasks through inertial measurement units on cohort 13 DM1 patients 11 healthy control counterparts. The consisted 16 meters walking both comfortable speed fast pace. Measured data plantar-flexion dorsi-flexion angles assumed ankles, evidence footdrop behavior disease, define novel severity index, termed SI-Norm2, rate grade impairments. According obtained results, our approach could be useful more precise stratification patients, providing new tool personalized rehabilitation approach.