The Motion Analysis and Gait Laboratory (Gait Lab) at TVCC provides objective measures used by our orthopaedic team to evaluate a client’s walking pattern. Special equipment is used for this assessment. This equipment captures important information about the way a client is walking and how much effort it takes. The assessment provides the Gait Lab team with animated 3-D images to evaluate joint motion, muscle force, and, muscle activity. This information along with imaging scans and medical history is used to make recommendations for the best treatment options.
Recommended treatment approaches may include surgery, botox injections, therapy, or bracing. A child’s walking pattern can be measured over time and re-measured following treatment.
Access to Service
The Gait Lab is accessed by referral from Thames Valley Children’s Centre’s Orthopaedic Clinic. Clients referred must be 19 years of age or younger, are able to walk either with the aid of assistive devices or independently and demonstrate abnormal walking patterns.
What to Expect
A Gait Lab assessment typically takes 1 to 2 hours. A physiotherapist will perform physical measurements including joint range of motion, muscle strength and spasticity (muscle tightness). Following this, one of the team members will place small reflective markers at key locations on your body. You will walk back and forth in the assessment room in front of special motion capture cameras.
The Gait lab team, made up of a Physiotherapist, Kinesiologist and Orthopaedic Surgeon, will analyze the results of the assessment to determine appropriate treatment options. A written report will be sent to you including the recommendations and treatment options.
For More Information...
Contact your physiotherapist to discuss the need and potential benefit of this type of assessment for your child.
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