Kinematics Analysis of Gait

* is used to describe movement patterns without regard for the forces involved in producing movement.

* it involves description of movement of the body as a whole and\or segments in relation to one another during gait.

• Qualitative KA-assessment of displacement ( primary variable assessed),

description of pattern of movement, deviation from normal body postures, joint angles at specific points in gait cycle.

• Quantitative analysis- used to obtain information on spatial and temporal variables as well as motion patterns

Temporal – stance-time, single-limb support time, double-support time, swing time, sride duration, step duration, cadence, gait speed/velocity, acceleration

Spatial- stride length, step length, stride-width, toe-out angle, width of BOS

Major determinants of normal & pathological Gait.

Ist determinant - Pelvic Rotation- (energy cost is reduced vert displacement of cog is min.)

2nd determinant -Lateral Pelvic Tilt - pelvic drop in frontal plane-( energy saving, lower vert drop)

3rd determinant - Knee flexion in the stance phase -permits with velocities of % out at minimum up in energy

4th determinant & 5th determinant- Foot & Knee interaction at 1C, the foot id DF & Knee is extended fully, so that the extremity is at its maximum length & C.O.G has reached its lowest point of downward displacement.

6th determinant- lateral displacement of pelvis (rhythmic, smooth gait)

-The pathologic processes that affect gait usually compromise joint mobility & muscle activity by 3 general mechanisms—

* deformity- soft tissue contracture

* muscle dysfunction's- NM disorders

* pain- contributes to muscle dysfunction & deformity.