Analysing patterns of coordination and patterns of control using novel data visualisation techniques in vector...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics and Movement Analysis
• Data Visualization Techniques
• Non-linear Dynamical Systems

Background:

• Vector coding is a non-linear technique for quantifying inter-segmental coordination and variability.
• Traditional time-series data reporting in vector coding poses challenges for multi-trial comparisons.
• A need exists for improved data visualization to represent complex coordination patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe novel data visualization methods for vector coding analysis.
• To present techniques for displaying coordination patterns, segmental dominancy, and range of motion.
• To facilitate single-subject analysis and comparison across participants.

Main Methods:

• Development of color mapping and data bar profiling for coordination and variability data.
• Introduction of inter-data point range of motion profiling on angle-angle diagrams.
• Application to rearfoot-forefoot and shank-foot coordination during stance using the Rizzoli foot model.

Main Results:

• Color mapping enables efficient dataset inspection and cross-participant comparison.
• Combined coupling angle mapping and segmental dominancy profiling provide intuitive summaries.
• Inter-data point range of motion profiling clarifies segmental dominancy and reveals distinct movement control patterns.

Conclusions:

• Novel visualization techniques highlight inter-participant differences in coordination, questioning the utility of group data alone.
• These methods are ideal for single-subject designs, classifying individual coordination and control patterns.
• The visualizations offer potential insights into overuse injuries, exercise prescription, and rehabilitation.