Gait analysis in cerebral palsy

Ambulation problems in cerebral palsy have been very difficult to analyse because it is the central control system rather than the motor system that is at fault. Until recently, decisions regarding surgical management has been made on clinical grounds, which by and large, have been subjective. Attempts to remedy this situation has resulted in the setting up of Gait Analysis Laboratories to provide a more objective method of evaluation of disorders of human motion. We have recently been using an opto-electronic computer-based gait analysis system to analyse normal as well as abnormal gait. Gait analysis can provide information regarding movements of both lower limbs in three planes, ground reaction forces, joint torque and dynamic electromyography. Children with various types of Cerebral Palsy have been assessed. The results of four clinical gait assessment cases are presented and discussed. Information provided by the Gait Analysis Laboratory has introduced more objectivity in pre-operative planning for these children.