Implementation of 2D Running Gait Analysis in Orthopedic Physical Therapy Clinics

Despite 2D motion analysis deemed valid and reliable in assessing gait deviations in runners, current use of video-based motion analysis among orthopedic physical therapists is not prevalent.

To investigate clinician-perceived effectiveness, adherence, and barriers to using a 2D running gait analysis protocol for patients with running-related injuries.

Survey.

Thirty outpatient physical therapy clinics were contacted to assess interest in participation. Participating therapists were trained on 2D running gait analysis protocol and given a running gait checklist. The Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework was used to assess the implementation process by collecting a baseline survey at the beginning of the study, effectiveness and implementation surveys at two months, and a maintenance survey at six months.

Twelve of the 15 responding clinics met eligibility criteria, giving a Reach rate of 80%. Twelve clinicians from 10 different clinics participated, giving an Adoption rate of 83%. For Effectiveness, the majority of clinicians valued having a checklist, and reported the protocol was easy to conduct, the methodology was reasonable and appropriate, and patients saw the benefits of using the protocol. Assessing Implementation, 92% performed all steps of the protocol on all appropriate runners. Average time spent conducting the protocol was 32 minutes. With respect to Maintenance, 50% reported continuing to use the protocol, while 50% answered they were not to continue use.

Clinicians expressed a perceived benefit of implementing a running gait analysis protocol with common themes of ease of use, being a useful adjunct to evaluating a patient, and increased satisfaction with treating injured runners. Potential barriers for not using the protocol included not having an appropriate clinic setup, time constraints, and not having adequate caseload.

3b.