Computational models for coupling smartphone-based biomechanical measurements and optical assessment of neurovascular function

The function of neurovascular and musculoskeletal systems are inextricably linked. Lack of coordination of these systems during human body movement can lead to falls which often precipitate long term health decline (particularly in older individuals). Assessment of both systems in tandem is made difficult by the expense and lack of portability of traditional methods (e.g., MRI for neurovascular assessment or clinical gait analysis for biomechanics). Newly developed, portable methods offer an opportunity to couple these systems with the potential to improve assessment of their combined function. We propose to collect data from various movements while tracking biomechanics through a smartphone-based protocol called OpenCap developed at Stanford University. During the same activities, we will gather data from an optical (near infrared spectroscopy) sensor attached to the forehead of the participants. Computational modelling will then be employed to analyse the data and develop standardised methods to assess the condition musculoskeletal and neurovascular systems