Validation of a Multimodal Wearable Device Integrating EMG and IMU Sensors for Monitoring Upper Limb Function During Tooth Brushing Activities of Daily Living

Analyzing the dynamics of muscle activation patterns and joint range of motion is essential to understanding human movement during complex tasks such as tooth brushing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). In individuals with neuromotor impairments, accurate assessment of upper limb motor patterns plays a critical role in rehabilitation, supporting the identification of compensatory strategies and informing clinical interventions. This study presents the validation of a previously developed novel, low-cost, wearable, and portable multimodal prototype that integrates inertial measurement units (IMU) and surface electromyography (sEMG) sensors into a single device. The system enables bilateral monitoring of arm segment kinematics and muscle activation amplitudes from six major agonist muscles during ADLs. Eleven healthy participants performed a functional task, tooth brushing, while wearing the prototype. The recorded data were compared with two established gold-standard systems, Qualisys® motion capture system and Biosignalsplux®, for validation of kinematic and electrophysiological measurements, respectively. This study provides technical insights into the device’s architecture. The developed system demonstrates potential for clinical and research applications, particularly for monitoring upper limb function and evaluating rehabilitation outcomes in populations with neurological disorders.