Gait Analysis Flashcards
(18 cards)
What are the phases of the gait cycle?
Stance (60%) and swing (40%), with sub-phases like loading response, mid-stance, pre-swing, and terminal swing.
What are common clinical gait deviations?
Trendelenburg gait (gluteus medius weakness), antalgic gait (pain-avoidance), ataxic gait (cerebellar dysfunction).
How is motion capture used in gait labs?
To measure joint angles, forces, and timing, aiding in diagnosis and rehabilitation planning
What is the key kinematic event that increases tripping risk during gait?
Minimum toe clearance (MTC) during mid-swing—lowest point between the toe and ground when foot velocity is highest.
What are the key features of Parkinsonian gait?
Stooped posture, shuffling steps, increased cadence, reduced stride length, and absent heel strike or arm swing.
What does an elevated knee adduction moment indicate in gait analysis?
Increased medial compartment loading, commonly associated with knee osteoarthritis progression.
What gait deviation is associated with gluteus medius weakness?
Trendelenburg gait—contralateral hip drop during single-leg stance.
What are typical sensor types in an IMU system?
Accelerometer (linear acceleration), gyroscope (angular velocity), and magnetometer (magnetic orientation).
What are the typical adaptations in elderly gait?
Slower speed, shorter stride, increased double stance time, and reduced swing-to-stance ratio.
What strategy helps humans conserve energy during walking?
Inverted pendulum model—uses centre of mass rise and fall to store and release energy during stance.
What happens at the heel during swing-to-stance transition?
The heel decelerates rapidly upon ground contact through eccentric control and dorsiflexion.
List three changes when load carriage increases.
Increased GRF, altered stride length, and greater trunk lean.
Name two assessments used during physical examination for gait analysis.
The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Romberg balance test.
Why is gait analysis useful in elderly populations?
It helps identify fall risk, neuromuscular deterioration, and informs targeted interventions.
What gait characteristics are seen in Parkinson’s disease?
Reduced stride length, shuffling, stooped posture, and reduced arm swing.
What causes hemiplegic gait?
Upper motor neuron lesion
What strategy do older adults most likely use during early swing trip?
Lowering strategy
What is the purpose of lateral pelvic shift during gait?
To balance the centre of mass over the stance foot
