Gait Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Gait Analysis of Patients with Degenerative Knee Arthritis Using Orthotic Shoes

Patients with degenerative knee arthritis often suffer from joint stiffness, pain, and decreased range of motion. In severe cases, it may affect their functional ability and quality of daily life. Flat feet tend to induce foot muscle strain, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and metatarsalgia…etc. Many studies indicate that functional insoles are effective in improving the condition of patients with flat feet or degenerative knee arthritis. However, the effects of insole during gait cycle are not very clear. Therefore, this study used 3D motion analysis system and force plate to record the biomechanical data during gait cycle and compare the situations of barefoot, wearing shoes and wearing shoes with insoles. We discussed the effects of an appropriate insole for patients with flat feet and knee arthritis and determine its effectiveness. Moreover, we discussed its mechanism as an important reference for improvement, research and development in future.

Gait Analysis of Patient with Achilles Tend Reconstruction

Complex anterolateral thigh flap provides soft tissue and vascularized myofascia for Achilles tendon reconstruction. The flap with vessels is sufficient to provide blood supply to the reconstructed tendon so that it can make Achilles tendon reconstruction to be relatively successful and with a better prognosis.
Although this reconstruction method has a higher success rate, it also has a higher risk to injure the quadriceps due to flap acquisition, which may even affect the stability of knee joint. Therefore, this study aimed to compare lower extremity performance in gait before and after Achilles tendon reconstruction with complex anterolateral thigh flap. The results of the study can be a reference for clinical evaluation.

Analysis of Lower Extremity Biomechanics of Male and Female Athletes Performing Lateral Shuttle Run

Lateral shuttle running is commonly used to warm up and train agility in athletes. Especially for basketball, handball or football players, quick lateral shuttle running is a important skill because they must get past defenders and attack at the same time. However, the lateral shuttle running requires quick deceleration and direction change, that tends to injure anterior cruciate ligament of knee joint. In additions, studies found that anterior cruciate ligament injury is more common in female athletes than male athletes. Most studies of lateral shuttle running focused on cardiopulmonary function instead of biomechanical characteristics of the movement. In this study, we used 3D motion analysis system and force plate to record the kinematic and kinetic data in quick lateral shuttle running of male and female athletes, and compares biomechanical characteristics between them, such as the joint angle and joint force. The results will provide athletes or trainers with a reference for setting up training program to avoid injuries during training.

Evaluation of the Biomechanical Characteristics of the Lower Extremities using a New Stair Climbing Machine

The stair climbing machine is common indoor exercise equipment at present. In many fitness centers or rehabilitation centers, stair climbing machine is commonly used for muscle strength and cardiorespiratory endurance training. The stair climbing machine can mainly enhance the muscle strength of the quadriceps and is also significantly effective on enhancing cardiorespiratory endurance. In addition, stepping on the stair climbing machine is a closed chain exercises that has less load on the joints, so it is also a suitable exercise equipment for those with knee joint injuries or degeneration. However, most of present exercise equipment only involve movement in the sagittal plane, flexion and extension of lower extremities, and the movements in other planes are rarely involved. This new stair climbing machine provides movements in the coronal plane mainly. To understand the safety and efficacy of this new equipment, we utilized 3D motion analysis system, six-axis load cells, and electromyography (EMG) to record lower extremity biomechanics and muscle activation of users in different program modes. The results can be used as a reference for training program setting and exercise equipment development.