# A Novel Whole-Body Wearable Technology for Motor Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis: Feasibility and Usability Pilot Study

## TL;DR

This pilot study tests a new wearable system called iFeel for assessing motor function in people with Multiple Sclerosis, showing it is feasible and well-received.

## Contribution

The study introduces and validates a novel wearable system combining inertial sensors, shoes, and AI for motor assessment in Multiple Sclerosis.

## Key findings

- iFeel's motor assessments showed strong agreement with clinician scores for T25FW and TUG tests.
- Sensor data correlated well with patient-reported outcomes on fatigue and mobility.
- Participants rated the system as highly usable and found it useful for rehabilitation and health monitoring.

## Abstract

(1) Background: Technological advancements provide new opportunities to objectively assess motor deficits in people with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS). This pilot study aimed to evaluate the performance and usability of iFeel, a novel wearable system which integrates inertial sensors, instrumented shoes, and an AI-based algorithm. (2) Methods: Sixteen adult PwMS (Expanded Disability Status Scale—EDSS ≤ 6) performed motor tests (Timed 25-Foot Walk—T25FW; Timed Up and Go—TUG) both with and without the iFeel suit. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were also collected to assess perceived fatigue, dual-task impact, and walking difficulties. System Usability Scale (SUS) and ad hoc questionnaires have been further administered to test usability. (3) Results: No significant differences were found between the clinician and system-based scores for both T25FW (p = 0.383) and TUG (p = 0.447). Reliability analyses showed good agreement for T25FW (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient—ICC = 0.83) and excellent agreement for TUG (ICC = 0.92). Sensor-derived measures correlated strongly with PROs on fatigue, dual-task interference, and mobility. Usability was rated high (SUS: 78.6 ± 16.1), with participants reporting minimal discomfort and positive perceptions of iFeel usefulness for rehabilitation, health monitoring, and daily activities. (4) Conclusions: This pilot study provides preliminary yet promising evidence on the feasibility, usability, and perceived usefulness of the iFeel technology for motor assessment in PwMS. The findings support its further development and potential integration into clinical practice, particularly for remote or continuous motor monitoring.