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Updated: Mar 30, 2026
Clinical-oriented Three-dimensional Gait Analysis Method for Evaluating Gait Disorder
Published on: March 4, 2018
The use of orthoses and gait analysis in children with AMC
1MotorikLab Q2:07, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden. asa.bartonek@ki.se.
Insights
Children with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) can improve walking ability with orthoses. Continuous use of these devices is recommended for functional ambulation and improved quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a condition causing joint deformities and muscle weakness, impacting lower limb function and ambulation.
- Orthotic devices are crucial for enabling functional ambulation in most children with AMC.
- Understanding gait patterns and the efficacy of different orthoses is vital for optimizing treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the gait patterns of children with AMC while wearing their habitual orthoses.
- To quantify quiet standing parameters in children with AMC.
- To evaluate a new orthosis and compare its gait effects against standard orthoses.
Main Methods:
- The study included 83 children, with 35 diagnosed with AMC.
- Participants underwent clinical examinations and were prescribed various orthoses based on joint range of motion and muscle strength.
- Three-dimensional gait and motion analysis, using 34 reflective markers, was conducted during standing and walking.
Main Results:
- The study analyzed gait patterns and standing performance in children with AMC using different orthotic interventions.
- Specific findings related to gait parameters and quiet standing are detailed within the individual studies.
- Comparative analysis explored differences in gait when using a new orthosis versus regular orthoses.
Conclusions:
- Continuous use of orthoses is recommended for individuals with AMC based on positive subjective feedback and objective gait assessment results.
- Orthotic management significantly contributes to functional ambulation and potentially improves the quality of life for children with AMC.
- The findings support the ongoing use of orthoses as a key component in the management of AMC.
Purpose:
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) can be described as a complex condition characterized by deformed joints with an intact sensory system. Consequences of muscle weakness and joint contractures in the lower limbs influence walking ability. With orthoses most children achieve functional ambulation. Based on four studies, the aim of this article was to describe gait pattern wearing habitual orthoses, to quantify quiet standing, to test and describe a new orthosis and compare gait differences with regular orthoses, in children with AMC.
Methods:
In total 83 children, of which 35 with AMC took part in the studies. All children had underwent clinical examination. Based on joint range of motion and muscle strength they had been prescribed various orthosis types, ranging from insoles to knee-ankle-foot orthoses with locked knee joints. 3D gait and motion analysis was performed during standing and walking with 34 reflective markers aligned with anatomical landmarks.
Results:
The findings are presented with respect to each of the included studies.
Conclusions:
According to the positive subjective impressions from parents and children, the clinical experiences of our research group, and the objective results from the gait assessments, continuously wearing of orthoses in persons with AMC is recommended.
