3D gait analysis with and without an orthopedic walking boot

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Biomechanics
• Gait Analysis

Background:

• Orthopedic walking boots are common alternatives to casts, but create leg length discrepancy (LLD).
• LLD can affect gait and is linked to various lower limb and back conditions.
• Previous research on walking boot gait is limited to the affected limb.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the bilateral effects of orthopedic walking boots on gait kinematics and kinetics.
• To compare gait patterns with and without a walking boot in healthy participants.

Main Methods:

• Forty healthy adults participated in the study.
• Gait data were collected using an 8-camera Vicon Motion Capture System and force plates.
• Participants underwent walking trials in bilateral tennis shoes, with a boot on the right foot (vs. left shoe or barefoot).

Main Results:

• Significant differences in joint angles and moments were observed when wearing the walking boot.
• These gait alterations were more pronounced on the longer limb.

Conclusions:

• Orthopedic walking boots alter gait similarly to existing leg length discrepancies.
• This can increase the risk of secondary knee, hip, and low back pain during treatment.