Gait Analysis
The systematic measurement and description of human locomotion, used in orthotic practice to identify movement deviations that inform device prescription.
Full Definition
Gait analysis encompasses observational, video-based, and instrumented assessment of a patient's walking or running pattern. In orthotic services, it is used to identify deviations such as drop foot, Trendelenburg gait, or scissor gait that may be amenable to orthotic intervention. Instrumented gait analysis may involve pressure plates, electromyography, and motion capture technology. Editors reviewing gait analysis reports should ensure that deviations are described using standard anatomical and biomechanical terminology, and that the relationship between findings and the proposed orthotic solution is clearly stated.
Usage
Usage note: Do not use as a synonym for 'biomechanical assessment'; gait analysis is a component, not the whole assessment. Specify whether analysis is observational or instrumented.
In Context
- "Video gait analysis confirmed the presence of bilateral Trendelenburg gait during the stance phase." — Gait analysis report
- "The editor noted that the document conflated gait analysis with the broader biomechanical assessment and restructured the sections accordingly." — Clinical report editing