Accuracy of StepWatch™ and ActiGraph accelerometers for measuring steps taken among persons with multiple sclerosis

Brian M. Sandroff, Robert W. Motl, Lara A. Pilutti, Yvonne C. Learmonth, Ipek Ensari, Deirdre Dlugonski, Rachel E. Klaren, Swathi Balantrapu, Barry J. Riskin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

84 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: There has been increased interest in the objective monitoring of free-living walking behavior using accelerometers in clinical research involving persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). The current investigation examined and compared the accuracy of the StepWatch activity monitor and ActiGraph model GT3X+ accelerometer for capturing steps taken during various speeds of prolonged, over-ground ambulation in persons with MS who had mild, moderate, and severe disability. Methods: Sixty-three persons with MS underwent a neurological examination for generation of an EDSS score and undertook two trials of walking on the GAITRite electronic walkway. Participants were fitted with accelerometers, and undertook three modified six-minute walk (6MW) tests that were interspersed with 10-15 minutes of rest. The first 6MW was undertaken at a comfortable walking speed (CWS), and the two remaining 6MW tests were undertaken above (faster walking speed; FWS) or below (slower walking speed; SWS) the participant's CWS. The actual number of steps taken was counted through direct observation using hand-tally counters. Results: The StepWatch activity monitor (99.8%-99.9%) and ActiGraph model GT3X+ accelerometer (95.6%-97.4%) both demonstrated highly accurate measurement of steps taken under CWS and FWS conditions. The StepWatch had better accuracy (99.0%) than the ActiGraph (95.5%) in the overall sample under the SWS condition, and this was particularly apparent in those with severe disability (StepWatch: 95.7%; ActiGraph: 87.3%). The inaccuracy in measurement for the ActiGraph was associated with alterations of gait (e.g., slower gait velocity, shorter step length, wider base of support). Conclusions: This research will help inform the choice of accelerometer to be adopted in clinical trials of MS wherein the monitoring of free-living walking behavior is of particular value.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere93511
JournalPLoS ONE
Volume9
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 8 2014

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
Dr. Motl is a consultant for Acorda Therapeutics and Biogen Idec. Dr. Motl further provides educational lectures for EMD Serono. This research was supported by an investigator initiated grant from Acorda Therapeutics. This does not alter the authors' adherence to all the PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials. All other authors declare no competing interests.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences
  • General

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