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Three methods for investigating, assessing and supporting the normal and pathological gait and manipulation activity
A Morecki1, J Oderfeld, T Zielińska
1Institute of Aeronautics arnd Applied Mechanics, Warsaw University of Technology, Poland.
Frontiers of Medical and Biological Engineering : the International Journal of the Japan Society of Medical Electronics and Biological Engineering
|October 3, 2000
Summary
Researchers developed novel methods for analyzing biped locomotion and human gait, including a new index for clinical assessment. They also explored nerve stimulation and orthoses to restore prehension movements, showing practical advantages.
Area of Science:
- Robotics and Biomechanics
- Neurorehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Biped locomotion and manipulation are complex human movements.
- Assessing human gait and restoring lost motor functions present significant challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present three novel methods for analyzing biped locomotion and manipulation.
- To develop and validate an indices method for human gait assessment in clinical settings.
- To investigate the use of implanted stimulators and external orthoses for restoring prehension movements.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing coupled oscillators as rhythm generators for locomotion analysis.
- Developing a mathematical model and computer simulations for biped locomotion.
- Proposing and clinically testing an indices method for gait assessment.
- Employing implanted nerve stimulators combined with external orthoses for functional restoration.
Main Results:
- Computer simulations provided insights into biped locomotion dynamics.
- The proposed indices method effectively distinguished between normal and pathological gaits in clinical tests.
- The combined approach of nerve stimulation and orthoses demonstrated practical advantages in restoring prehension.
Conclusions:
- The presented methods offer effective tools for analyzing and assessing biped locomotion and human gait.
- The developed indices method is a valuable clinical tool for gait analysis.
- Nerve stimulation and orthoses show promise for functional restoration in patients with lost prehension.