A breakthrough wearable technology may transform how we monitor health through our everyday movements. Researchers have developed a wireless, self-powered smart insole system that captures detailed information about how people walk, stand, and move throughout their day.
The innovative system, detailed in the April 16, 2025 issue of Science Advances, uses 22 pressure sensors embedded within a flexible insole to create a comprehensive map of foot pressure during various activities. This data is then transmitted wirelessly to a smartphone app for real-time analysis.
“Our bodies carry lots of useful information that we’re not even aware of,” said Jinghua Li, co-author of the study and an assistant professor of materials science and engineering at The Ohio State University. “These statuses also change over time, so it’s our goal to use electronics to extract and decode those signals to encourage better self health care checks.”
What sets this system apart from previous attempts is its remarkable durability and precision. The researchers engineered pressure sensors that maintain their accuracy even after 180,000 cycles of compression and release—equivalent to months of regular use. The system also achieves exceptional linearity in its measurements across a wide pressure range, ensuring reliable data collection.
Perhaps most impressive is the self-powering capability. Small, flexible perovskite solar cells mounted on the top of the user’s shoes harvest energy from ambient light. This energy is stored in lithium batteries integrated within the arch area of the insole, where pressure is typically minimal, making the system completely wireless and maintenance-free.
The smart insole can differentiate between eight different motion states, including sitting, standing, walking, running, and climbing stairs. By incorporating machine learning algorithms, the system recognizes these movements with extraordinary accuracy, opening possibilities for personalized health insights.
Medical applications are particularly promising. The system could help detect early signs of various conditions, including diabetic foot ulcers, plantar fasciitis, and even neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease. For patients already diagnosed with these conditions, the insole could monitor progress and improve treatment outcomes.
“The interface is flexible and quite thin, so even during repetitive deformation, it can remain functional,” explained Li. “The combination of the software and hardware means it isn’t as limited.”
The detailed pressure analysis reveals fascinating differences in how we move. During walking, pressure transfers sequentially from heel to toe, with contact time accounting for about half of each step. During running, however, almost all sensors register pressure simultaneously, and contact time shortens to just a quarter of each stride.
The researchers expect the technology will be commercially available within three to five years. Future development will focus on improving gesture recognition capabilities and testing the system with more diverse populations.
For the millions of Americans who suffer from ambulatory difficulties, this unobtrusive technology offers a promising tool for early detection, preventive care, and rehabilitation monitoring—all while going about their normal daily activities.
If our reporting has informed or inspired you, please consider making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, empowers us to continue delivering accurate, engaging, and trustworthy science and medical news. Independent journalism requires time, effort, and resources—your support ensures we can keep uncovering the stories that matter most to you.
Join us in making knowledge accessible and impactful. Thank you for standing with us!