An Introduction to Gait Analysis

Gait analysis is the systematic study of human walking. Most of the literature in this field is highly specialized and very technical. This book, however, aims to brings gait analysis out of the 'ivory tower' of the research laboratory, and to put it where it belongs, in the 'real world' of the clinic. The author has maintained the clear and approachable style that established the first three editions.

• Highly readable, the book builds upon the basics of anatomy, physiology and biomechanics.
• Describes both normal and pathological gait.
• Covers the range of methods available to perform gait analysis, from the very simple to the very complex.
• Emphasizes the clinical applications of gait analysis.

Basic sciences
Anatomy
Physiology
Biomechanics
References and suggestions for further reading

Normal gait
Walking and gait
History
Terminology used in gait analysis
Outline of the gait cycle
The gait cycle in detail
Ground reaction forces
Support moment
Energy consumption
Optimization of energy usage
Starting and stopping
Other varieties of gait
Gait in the young
Gait in the elderly
References and suggestions for further reading

Pathological and other abnormal gaits
Specific gait abnormalities
Walking aids
Amputee gait
Treadmill gait
Common pathologies affecting gait
References and suggestions for further reading

Methods of gait analysis
Visual gait analysis
General gait parameters
Timing the gait cycle
Direct motion measurement systems
Electrogoniometers
Pressure beneath the foot
Electromyography
Energy consumption
Accelerometers
Gyroscopes
Force platforms
Kinematic systems
Combined kinetic/kinematic systems
References and suggestions for further reading

Applications of gait analysis
Clinical gait assessment
Conditions benefiting from gait assessment
Future developments
ConclusionReferences and suggestions for further reading

Gait assessment in cerebral palsy
Basic physiology of movement
The causes of cerebral palsy
Spastic hemiplegia
Spastic diplegia
Other varieties of cerebral palsy
Crouch gait
Spasticity
Lever arm dysfunction
Gait patterns in cerebral palsy
Gait assessment
Overview of treatment
Summary
References and suggestions for further reading

Gait analysis data on CD-ROM
Computer requirements
Running the CD
Contents of the CD
How to use the Polygon viewer
Notes
Acknowledgements

Appendices
1. Normal ranges for gait parameters
2. Conversions between measurement units
3. Sources of further information

Glossary
Index