Computerized gait analysis can sometimes supplement the clinician’s
evaluation of a patient’s gait by documenting abnormalities not readily
observable. It is particularly useful when the choice between alternative
treatments cannot be readily determined by the usual clinical examination.
For example, in the treatment of children with cerebral palsy gait analysis
can demonstrate which muscle-tendon units are actually active during gait,
and therefore whether they might be either sectioned or transferred. (Gait
analysis is rarely useful to make a diagnosis, since that is ordinarily
obvious by other means.)
The Orthopaedic Gait Analysis Center at UIHC has the capability of performing
computerized gait analyses. Gait analysis may incorporate different approaches
or combinations of approaches depending on the situation and what is deemed
to be appropriate. In general analyses can incorporate: a kinematic analysis,
in which the 3-D patterns of motion of the lower limb joints are accurately
measured; a kinetic analysis, in which the net forces acting across the
joints are determined; an electromyographic (EMG) analysis, in which the
dynamic activation of lower limb muscles are monitored with either surface
of fine wire electrodes; a metabolic energy analysis, in which the metabolic
costs of walking are measured; a pedobarograph analysis, in which the
pressure distributions under the foot are measured when the foot contacts
the floor. Computerized gait analysis can be expensive and should only
be contemplated when conventional assessments are deemed inadequate and
the implications of the assessment justify the costs.
The Orthopaedic Gait Analysis Laboratory is available to conduct gait
analyses when indicated. Physicians interested in obtaining gait analysis
for their patients for the purposes of selecting treatments should directly
call Dr. John Yack (319-335-9802). Please use the Referral Form. If it
is deemed we can be of service such analysis will be scheduled.
A website for the Orthopaedic Gait Analysis Laboratory can be seen at:
http://www.medicine.uiowa.edu/physicaltherapy/research/yacklab.htm
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