Ergometric evaluation of pathological gait.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Human Locomotion
• Gait Analysis

Background:

• Walking involves complex movements of the center of gravity (CG).
• Energy transfer between potential and kinetic energy occurs during each step.
• Quantitative analysis of gait is crucial for understanding locomotion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively analyze the alteration of normal CG movement in pathological gait.
• To measure energy transfer (R) and other gait parameters.
• To develop an index for assessing gait asymmetry.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a microcomputer to analyze data from a force platform.
• Measured CG vertical and horizontal motion, work, power, and energy transfer (R).
• Compared patient gait parameters with those of normal subjects and between affected/unaffected limbs.

Main Results:

• Gait parameters including CG movement, energy transfer (R), step length, and frequency were determined.
• Pathological gait alterations were quantitatively measured.
• An index of locomotion asymmetry was derived by comparing limb stances.

Conclusions:

• The developed method allows for precise quantitative analysis of gait abnormalities.
• This approach provides a sensitive index for assessing asymmetry in pathological locomotion.
• Microcomputer analysis of CG movement offers valuable insights into gait biomechanics.