Inside Pediatrics Winter 2015

Comprehensive gait analysis consists of a clinical evaluation, three-dimensional kinematics, kinetics and EMG. The clinical evaluation is performed by two physical therapists and includes measurements of joint motion, muscle strength and spasticity, observation and video analysis of gait and movement with consideration of medical history, current functional levels and family goals. Kinematics data is obtained by

force that is generated around each joint. Wireless surface EMG probes record the electrical activity of the muscles. In short, the technology provides information that can otherwise not be seen. Gait and motion analysis are most helpful when a major change in treatment is being considered, such as surgery, therapy or orthotics. The patients who will benefit most from this extensive analysis are those with diagnoses such as cerebral palsy, myelomeningocele and other neuromuscular conditions. The ideal candidate is at least 4 years old, tolerant of tactile stimuli, able to walk a distance of 20 feet multiple times with or without an assistive device and has the ability to follow directions and cooperate with a two- to four-hour test. Thus far in 2015, about two dozen patients have been evaluated in Children’s Gait & Motion Analysis Lab from across Alabama and surrounding states. “It’s a science that’s continuing to grow,” Conklin said. More information about the Gait & Motion Analysis Lab is available at www.childrensal.org/gait-lab .

reflective markers placed on the skin to record joint angles throughout the gait cycle. This information creates a 3-D skeletal model that is then compared to normative data. Kinetics are analyzed by six force plates that measure the force between the foot and the ground to determine the amount of

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