What is instrumental gait analysis?
Instrumental gait analysis is an advanced technique that uses state-of-the-art technology to accurately evaluate movement patterns during walking. This procedure allows for the identification of biomechanical, functional, and neurological alterations that affect how a person walks. It is a key tool for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of various pathologies related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
What is this test for?
Instrumental gait analysis is mainly used for:
- Clinical diagnosis: It is used to identify gait alterations related to neurological, orthopedic, or muscular diseases.
- Therapeutic planning: It helps to design personalized rehabilitation programs based on the specific needs of the patient.
- Post-surgical evaluation: It is used to monitor recovery after surgical interventions such as joint replacements or spine surgeries.
- Clinical research: It is used to study the impact of different medical conditions on gait and to develop new therapeutic strategies.
- Sports and performance: It is used to optimize athletic performance by analyzing movement patterns.
Benefits of high technology in instrumental gait analysis
The procedure combines advanced sensors to measure biomechanical and functional parameters of gait. The data obtained is processed using specialized software to generate detailed reports on kinematics, dynamics, and muscle activity during movement.
What is the procedure like?
The instrumental gait analysis procedure involves:
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Preparation:
For your preparation, in the initial consultation, the doctor will ask you some questions to learn about your medical history and better understand your symptoms. It is recommended that you wear comfortable and tight-fitting clothing to facilitate the placement of sensors and markers. Additionally, it is ideal that you come with the footwear you usually wear, as this will allow for more representative results of your daily gait.
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During the test:
During the test, sensors will be placed on specific points of your body, such as hips, knees, and ankles, to record your movements. You will walk on a conventional hallway or in the hospital room.
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After the test:
You can resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure. A biomechanics specialist will analyze and interpret the results and send them to your doctor.
Recommendations for the test
During the test, it is important that you walk naturally and avoid sudden or exaggerated movements. Also, carefully follow the technician’s instructions before, during, and after the procedure to ensure accurate results.
Are there any risks?
Instrumental gait analysis is a safe and non-invasive procedure. It does not involve radiation exposure or require medication administration. However, there may be some minimal considerations:
- Fatigue: You may experience mild tiredness if the test includes several repetitions.
- Mild discomfort: If adhesive sensors or markers are used, you might feel temporary skin discomfort.
To ensure your test goes smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will give you the Informed Consent, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metal objects, prostheses (including dental ones), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of an incident.
