[The value of instrumented gait analysis in infantile cerebral palsy]

The technique of instrumented gait analysis enables the physician to exactly document spastic gait disorders. Time-distance parameters, joint kinematics and kinetics, dynamic EMG recordings and the measurement of energy consumption provide an extensive insight into gait problems. This method is used not only for diagnostic purposes but also to monitor the effects of therapeutic interventions. A significant limitation is the specialist knowledge necessary to interpret the data. For an adequate assessment, the gait data must be supplemented by clinical and radiological findings. When interpreting gait analysis reports, technical errors must always be born in mind. The subjectivity of individual interpretation is the major reason for the considerable variability in the treatment recommendations for similar patients.