Article

Clinical gait analysis is a valuable tool for the understanding of motion
disorders and treatment outcomes. Most standard models used in gait analysis rely
on predefined sets of body segment parameters that must be measured on each
individual. Traditionally, these parameters are measured using calipers and tape
measures. The process can be time consuming and is prone to several sources of
error. This investigation explored a novel method for rapid recording of linear
body segment parameters using magnetic-field based digital calipers commonly used
for a different purpose in prosthetics and orthotics. The digital method was
found to be comparable to traditional in all linear measures and data capture was
significantly faster with the digital method, with mean time savings for 10
measurements of 2.5 min. Digital calipers only record linear distances, and were
less accurate when diameters were used to approximate limb circumferences.
Experience in measuring BSPs is important, as an experienced measurer was
significantly faster than a graduate student and showed less difference between
methods. Comparing measurement of adults vs. children showed greater differences
with adults, and some method-dependence. If the hardware is available, digital
caliper measurement of linear BSPs is accurate and rapid.
CI - Copyright (c) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS