Walking is complex. Children and adolescents with walking difficulties often have different ways of coordinating their movements and adapting to their walking limitations. Clinical motion analysis is used to help understand complex neuromuscular, acquired or congenital disorders that affect gait.
Motion analysis testing allows surgeons to evaluate problems at all joints simultaneously, which enables them to perform surgical correction of all problems in a single surgical session. This leads to improved quality of life for children whose lives would otherwise be disrupted every few years for surgical procedures.
Results of the testing are reviewed by a multidisciplinary team of experts, including an orthopaedic surgeon, biomechanical engineer, physical therapist and computer technician.
Specialized cameras capture the movements of markers attached to the feet, legs and trunk.
Sensors placed on the skin monitor how the muscles are working.
Platforms recessed into the floor measure forces acting on the body as the patient walks.
Sensors placed under the feet record pressures under different parts of the foot during walking.
High definition video cameras record images of how the patient is walking.
Specialized equipment measures the energy cost of walking.
To initiate a referral, please contact new patient access at 413-735-1234 or 800-322-5905. For more information, contact Denise Gloekler, rehabilitation services and motion analysis center manager at 413-735-1356 or by email.
All services are provided regardless of the families’ ability to pay.