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Gait Analysis
What is Motion
Analysis?
Motion
Analysis is the study of movement. Evaluating a person's pattern of
walking or movement is difficult by observation alone. The Motion
Analysis Laboratory at Children's Hospital measures complex
movements using specialized equipment.
The Motion
Analysis Laboratory (and its professional staff) collects information in
five ways:
¨
Video cameras
record front and side views of movement.
¨
Motion cameras
record movements of specific body segments.
¨
Force plates
measure the force applied to the ground as the person's feet contact the
floor.
¨
Functional
electromyography (EMG)
is a method of recording muscle activity during movement.
¨
A detailed
physical evaluation
provides baseline data regarding flexibility, muscle strength, control of
individual muscle movements, and postural alignment.
Computers gather
information, and after data analysis and interpretation, Motion Analysis
Laboratory professionals compile an objective report of the specific
movement patterns, causes of movement, and recommendations for treatment
intervention.
How is the
information from the test used?
Results from the
motion analysis help your physician or physical therapist determine specific
treatments that may help you or your child improve functional abilities or
walking pattern. The analysis can provide valuable information about the
effectiveness of treatments such as Botox, medications, therapy, bracing,
artificial limbs, or surgery.
Who can it help?
Motion analysis
aids physicians and therapists in assessing functional problems resulting
from:
The
physical therapist will evaluate range of motion, flexibility and muscle
function at the beginning of the test. Reflective markers for analyzing motion,
and electrodes for recording muscle activity are then attached to the legs.
Video cameras and computers collect information during walking up and down the
walkway with the equipment in place. The entire test takes from two to three
hours depending on the information requested by your physician.