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Wearable sensors and Mobile Health (mHealth) technologies to assess and promote physical activity in stroke: a narrative review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 February 2016

Shamala Thilarajah ,
Ross A Clark  and
Gavin Williams
Shamala Thilarajah*
Affiliation:
School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, Australia Department of Physiotherapy, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
Ross A Clark
Affiliation:
School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, Australia
Gavin Williams
Affiliation:
Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, Australia The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
*
Address for Correspondence: Shamala Thilarajah, School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria3065 E-mail: shamala.thilarajah@acu.edu.au.
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Abstract

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with approximately one third of people left with permanent deficits impacting on their function. This may contribute to a physically inactive lifestyle and further associated health issues. Current research suggests that people after stroke are not meeting the recommended levels of physical activity, and are less active than people with other chronic illnesses. Thus, it is important to understand how to support people after stroke to uptake and maintain physical activity. Wearable sensors and mobile health (mHealth) technologies are a potential platform to measure and promote physical activity. Some of these technologies may incorporate behaviour change techniques such as real-time feedback. Although wearable activity trackers and smartphone technology are widely available, the feasibility and applicability of these technologies for people after stroke is unclear. This article reviews the devices available for assessment of physical activity in stroke and discusses the potential for advances in technology to promote physical activity in this population.

Keywords

Wearable sensorssmartphone technologymHealthphysical activitymeasurementstroke
Type
Review Article
Information
Brain Impairment , Volume 17 , Issue 1: Physical Activity in Neurological Populations , March 2016 , pp. 34 - 42
Copyright
Copyright © Australasian Society for the Study of Brain Impairment 2016 

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