Article

Diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is based on clinical examination and
imaging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of 3D gait analysis
as a tool in the differential diagnosis of LSS. Fourteen patients participated in
the study that consisted of three phases: (1) capture six gait cycles after rest,
(2) walk on a treadmill for a maximum of 20 min, (3) capture six gait cycles
after effort. From these data, the kinematic variables were compared with the
perception of pain and the cross sectional area of the spinal canal as measured
by magnetic resonance. Most of correlations were weak and showed that the most
significant results are reported by the Gait Deviation Index (GDI). The Gait
Deviation Index demonstrated moderate negative correlation with the perception of
pain after effort was made by both limbs. This means that there is a significant
decrease in the overall function of the lower limbs according to the increase in
pain symptoms. This situation may be reflected in decreased cadence and speed
beyond the times of single support for the left limb, and the balance of the
right limb, as part of a strategy to protect against pain and imbalance. We found
no correlation between gait and pain in the cross-sectional area of the spinal
canal. Therefore, we believe that there is no advantage for the patient to make a
3-D gait analysis because the analysis does not add relevant information to
clinical diagnosis.
CI - Copyright (c) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS