A systematic review of real-world gait-related digital mobility outcomes in Parkinson’s disease
Kirk C, Packer E, Polhemus A, MacLean MK, Bailey H, Kluge F, Gaßner H, Rochester L, Del Din S, Yarnall AJ (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
Book Volume: 8
Article Number: 585
Journal Issue: 1
DOI: 10.1038/s41746-025-01938-y
Abstract
Clinical assessments of Parkinson’s disease (PD) focus on structured motor tasks, potentially underestimating real-world mobility impairment. Digital mobility outcomes (DMOs) from wearable devices, offer a promising alternative, but their clinical value remains unclear. This study reviewed the clinical utility of real-world DMOs in PD. Eight databases were searched (2000–2024). Eligibility included reports assessing real-world gait-based DMOs in PD. Study selection and data extraction were conducted independently by four reviewers. No meta-analysis was performed. Twenty-seven reports met inclusion criteria, reporting 21 DMOs. Walking speed was most common (92%), followed by step length (59%) and stride time (48%). Devices, assessment durations and walking bout definitions varied. DMOs differentiated PD from controls and real-world from supervised conditions. PD Subgroup analyses and associations with motor severity were inconsistent. Real-world DMOs offer valuable insight into PD mobility. Standardised protocols are needed for comparability. Further research should explore predictive utility and complex or composite DMOs. Trial Registration: PROSPERO 2025 CRD42021281213.
Authors with CRIS profile
Involved external institutions
Newcastle University
United Kingdom (GB)
University of Zurich / Universität Zürich (UZH)
Switzerland (CH)
University of Twente
Netherlands (NL)
Novartis AG
Switzerland (CH)
United Kingdom (GB)
University of Zurich / Universität Zürich (UZH)
Switzerland (CH)
University of Twente
Netherlands (NL)
Novartis AG
Switzerland (CH)
How to cite
APA:
Kirk, C., Packer, E., Polhemus, A., MacLean, M.K., Bailey, H., Kluge, F.,... Yarnall, A.J. (2025). A systematic review of real-world gait-related digital mobility outcomes in Parkinson’s disease. npj Digital Medicine, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-025-01938-y
MLA:
Kirk, Cameron, et al. "A systematic review of real-world gait-related digital mobility outcomes in Parkinson’s disease." npj Digital Medicine 8.1 (2025).
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