D1 Gait Analysis

Topic

The multimodal measurement system simultaneously records three types of variables during the gait cycle—kinematic, kinetic, and dynamic balance variables—and this simultaneity allows for correlating events across these three domains at any given instant of the cycle.

The first type consists of kinematic variables: during the gait cycle, the system records the trajectories traced by each joint and the joint angles formed at any given moment; these trajectories and angles determine the exact geometric shape the body assumes throughout the cycle.

Alongside kinematic variables, the system also records kinetic variables—specifically, the joint power generated or absorbed by each joint during the gait cycle—which determine the amount of mechanical work contributed or absorbed by each joint to sustain movement.

In addition to kinematic and kinetic variables, the system records dynamic balance variables, such as the position of the center of pressure (the point where the body applies force against the ground); the way this center of pressure shifts during walking determines how close the body is to losing dynamic balance at any given moment.

By simultaneously recording kinematic, kinetic, and dynamic balance variables, the multimodal measurement system enables the quantification of the magnitude and nature of gait disorders and balance issues; it identifies the extent to which each recorded variable deviates from expected norms and the specific pattern of that deviation.

This quantification transforms gait disorders and balance issues into physical parameters comparable to normative values: rather than providing a qualitative description of a person's gait, the system yields numerical data that can be directly compared against values ​​defining normal, unimpaired gait and balance.

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