Abstract
A gait analysis system has been devised that is not only relatively inexpensive, but is also quick to use, requires no expertise to run, and does not need any special laboratory facilities.
The system monitors the subject's knee and hip movements during ambulation using electro-goniometers. Foot contact data are obtained using lightweight, flexible, foot switches. The data are sent to a computer via an eight channel telemetry system carried by the subject on a waist belt.
The software is designed to simplify analysis and be ‘user friendly’. After a simple calibration routine, the system prompts the operator to ask the subject to walk a number of steps. The computer ignores the initial steps taken as these are not typical of normal gait. It then collects data from the consequent steps, averages the data and then displays them in both graphical and numerical form. A patient can be tested and a printout provided for insertion in the patient's notes within ten minutes.
Only one hours training is required to learn to operate the system. A patient can be tested in a physiotherapy department, corridor, or in any area where a few consecutive steps can be taken.
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