Shota Itoh

Abstract We aimed to evaluate the applicability of a newly developed joint angle measurement system comprising six-axis inertial measurement unit sensors and tablet-based application for estimating joint angles from angular velocity and acceleration data. The application calculated orientation angles from single sensor data, with relative angles calculated using multiple sensors. In experiment 1, validity and reliability were examined using a test device. In experiment 2, static angles of five joints were calculated in four healthy participants using attached sensors and compared with universal goniometer values. In experiment 3, usability and satisfaction were evaluated using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST)-like scale. In experiment 1, mean difference and root mean squared error (RMSE) between the developed system and test device were < 0.2° and < 1.0°, respectively, across all axes. In experiment 2, when data from all joints were pooled, mean difference and RMSE were 0.2° and 3.8°, respectively. Mean difference and RMSE across each joint were < 5°, indicating the system is comparable to universal goniometer. In experiment 3, median SUS and QUEST-like scores were 73.8 and 4.0, respectively, indicating good usability and satisfaction. The developed system has high accuracy and sufficient validity for human joint angles, with good usability and satisfaction.

Objective To determine the effects of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation in a patient with chronic stroke. Design Case report. Patients A man in his 70s presented with left hemiplegia secondary to cerebral hemorrhage. Methods An AB design was used: phase A (sham stimulation) and phase B (active stimulation). Magnetic stimulation was applied using a peripheral magnetic stimulator (Pathleader™, IFG, Sendai, Japan). Outcomes were assessed at four points: before the intervention, after phase A, after phase B, and at follow-up (3 weeks after phase B) using the Modified Ashworth Scale, range of motion, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Simple Test for Evaluating Hand Function, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measures. Results The Modified Ashworth Scale score for the wrist extensor remained unchanged in phase A but improved after phase B and was sustained at follow-up. The range of motion showed no change. The Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores were 40, 41, 44, and 45, respectively, and the Simple Test for Evaluating Hand Function scores were 1, 4, 3, and 5, respectively, at the four time points. One Canadian Occupational Performance Measure item improved after phase B and remained stable. Conclusion In patients with chronic stroke and severe hemiplegia, repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation may be effective in reducing spasticity and improving motor function.