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Differences in lower limb transverse plane joint moments during gait when expressed in two alternative reference
Anthony G Schache1, Richard Baker, Christopher L Vaughan
1Murdoch Childrens Research Institute and Hugh Williamson Gait Laboratory, Royal Childrens Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia. anthony.schache@mcri.edu.au
Journal of Biomechanics
|January 31, 2006
Summary
The reference frame used to express joint moments significantly impacts transverse plane moments during gait. This sensitivity to the anatomical frame (AF) versus laboratory frame (LF) likely explains inconsistencies in previous lower limb gait studies.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Movement Science
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Previous studies report significant variations in lower limb joint transverse plane moments during able-bodied adult gait.
- These inconsistencies cannot be attributed to adopted conventions (internal vs. external moments) or inherent gait variability.
- Understanding these moments is crucial for analyzing lower limb function and diagnosing movement disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if the reference frame used for expressing joint moments influences transverse plane moments during gait.
- To determine if reference frame choice is a primary reason for inconsistencies in published gait literature.
- To analyze the independent effects of external moments on transverse plane joint moments.
Main Methods:
- Collected 3D kinematic and ground reaction force data from nine able-bodied adults walking at self-selected speeds.
- Calculated 3D hip, knee, and ankle joint moments using inverse dynamics.
- Expressed moments in both the laboratory frame (LF) and the distal segment's anatomical frame (AF), analyzing external moment components.
Main Results:
- Lower limb transverse plane joint moments exhibited consistent profiles across subjects, except for ankle rotation in the foot AF.
- Significant differences were observed in transverse plane joint moments when expressed in the distal segment AF compared to the LF.
- Hip transverse plane moments showed near reciprocal profiles between the LF and AF, primarily due to external ground reaction force moments.
Conclusions:
- Lower limb transverse plane joint moments during gait are highly sensitive to the chosen reference frame.
- The discrepancy between laboratory and anatomical frames is a likely explanation for inconsistent findings in the literature.
- Researchers should carefully consider and report the reference frame when analyzing and comparing transverse plane joint moments in gait studies.