Parkinson's disease monitoring from gait analysis via foot-worn sensors

Background: In Parkinson's disease (PD), neuronal loss in the substantia nigra ultimate in dopaminergic denervation of the stiratum is followed by disarraying of the movements' preciseness, automatism, and agility. Hence, the seminal sign of PD is a change in motor performance of affected individuals. As PD is a neurodegenerative disease, progression of disability in mobility is an inevitable consequence. Indeed, the major cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with PD is the motor changes restricting their functional independence. Therefore, monitoring the manifestations of the disease is crucial to detect any worsening of symptoms timely, in order to maintain and improve the quality of life of these patients.