Actigraphy
Actigraphy is a process by which clinicians can identify certain sleep disorders using specific equipment designed to assess a patient’s sleep/wake routine. This sleep test requires the patient to wear a wrist and/or ankle band, called an actimetry sensor that monitors:
- Physical movement
- Vector magnitude
- Energy expenditure
- Activity intensity levels and a host of other data
The data is collected by the sensors and displayed in a graph called anactigraph.
Undergoing an Actigraphy
Actigraphy is often used to help determine problems with a patient’s circadian rhythm or sleep patterns. Depending on the test being performed, the actimetry sensor may worn on the non-dominant arm, the ankle, around the waist or around the shoulder and the device may have to be worn for weeks at a time. Actigraphs have been key in helping clinicians evaluate and diagnose:
Actigraph sensors are also worn to monitor the progression of treatment of such disorders.
Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.
