Investigating the Effects of Custom Made Orthotics on Brain Forms: A Pilot Study
OBJECTIVES: To determine (1) the feasibility of this novel approach and technique of recording brain activity, wirelessly and continuously, during human gait, and (2) if custom made orthotics will alter the brain activity patterns recorded. METHODS: Gait trials were performed on 16 participants walking with and without orthotic devices in their shoes while simultaneously collecting EEG data through the Emotiv wireless neuroheadset. RESULTS: The Emotiv neuroheadset was capable of detecting changes in brain activity between the two gait trials. The differences in brain activity identified between conditions were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest the Emotiv EEG device is sensitive enough to detect changes in brain activation patterns during human gait. Further research is required before definite conclusions can be made about this novel device, or about what effects, if any, orthotics have on brain activation patterns during gait.
human gait, neuroimaging, EEG, Emotiv headset, orthotic devices
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