Revolutionizing Gait Analysis with Blockchain Technology: Enhancing the Privacy and Security

Gait analysis is essential for evaluating the gait patterns of individuals and for diagnosing and treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. However, traditional gait analysis techniques have their own limitations. They can be time-consuming, costly, and detrimental to patient data security. Blockchain technology therefore offers a probable solution. It provides stakeholders with an efficient and transparent system for storing and exchanging patient information. Blockchain promotes the collection of patient data from wearable devices such as sensors, smartwatches, and smartphones by utilizing a decentralized framework. This data is encrypted and securely stored on the blockchain to ensure its immutability and prevent any manipulation attempts. The integration of blockchain technology with gait analysis provides many advantages including enhanced efficiency, traceability, and a reduction in the risks associated with human errors and expenditures. Additionally, the transparent nature of the blockchain ledger system provides healthcare professionals with comprehensive and accurate records of each patient’s gait analysis over time. However, there are challenges such as substantial investment for required infrastructure, complex integration, and ethical concerns surrounding data ownership and patient privacy. The rest of the chapter is organized as follows. It provides a comprehensive discussion on gait, covering the different phases and the integration of blockchain technology. Additionally, the chapter explores the limitations and advantages of incorporating blockchain technology in gait analysis. Furthermore, some case studies are presented. Later, the framework for the Decentralized Gait Analysis and Rehabilitation Platform is presented and finally, the conclusion is followed by references.