A novel method for the measurement of linear body segment parameters during clinical gait analysis

Clinical gait analysis is a valuable tool for the understanding of motion disorders and treatment outcomes. Most standard models used in gait analysis rely on predefined sets of body segment parameters that must be measured on each individual. Traditionally, these parameters are measured using calipers and tape measures. The process can be time consuming and is prone to several sources of error. This investigation explored a novel method for rapid recording of linear body segment parameters using magnetic-field based digital calipers commonly used for a different purpose in prosthetics and orthotics. The digital method was found to be comparable to traditional in all linear measures and data capture was significantly faster with the digital method, with mean time savings for 10 measurements of 2.5 min. Digital calipers only record linear distances, and were less accurate when diameters were used to approximate limb circumferences. Experience in measuring BSPs is important, as an experienced measurer was significantly faster than a graduate student and showed less difference between methods. Comparing measurement of adults vs. children showed greater differences with adults, and some method-dependence. If the hardware is available, digital caliper measurement of linear BSPs is accurate and rapid.