Human gait is a bipedal movement characterized by a complex interplay of neuromuscular structures. Well-coordinated muscle force generation is essential for
When walking, only one foot touches the ground at a time. Humans are therefore in a state of latent instability during movement. Stability during difficult steps is not ensured solely by muscular activity in the lower extremities. Pendulum-like movements of the arms and the activity of the major muscle groups also contribute to our balance.
As the last link in the chain, the foot plays a major role in biomechanics. During a full gait cycle, it must absorb, dampen, and transform forces.
A closer look at the gait cycle reveals a two-step process. A distinction is made between the stance phase and the swing phase.
Interaction of muscles and joints during movement © peterschreiber.media | AdobeStock
In the broadest sense, motion analysis involves the comparative study of the movements of people with different performance requirements or skill levels. Research in the workplace, for example, focuses on improving work movements to enhance the efficiency of production processes.
In a medical context, a doctor analyzes the movement patterns of a patient who experiences difficulties moving or is recovering from an injury. The goal is to recommend measures to restore full mobility.
In sports, motion analysis is used to teach movements that go beyond everyday motor skills. This helps athletes improve their movements to achieve their personal best.
Motion analysis is used in various professional fields:
Follow-up care and therapy adjustments by a physical therapist with experience in analysis are important components of the approach.
The biomechanical approach makes it possible to identify abnormal stresses on joint structures and the resulting shear forces from muscle training, and to implement countermeasures.
The evaluation of the movement analysis is conducted by an observer qualified in sports science. They interpret the results to determine whether the forces and energies involved align with their physiological axes or deviate significantly from them (e.g., overpronation/supination).
Gait analysis helps orthopedic surgeons diagnose
Those affected often suffer from back pain or pain when walking. Imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) quickly reach their limits when examining these movement-related pain sensations.
Back or joint pain does not always originate at the actual site of the pain. Motion analysis reveals connections between pain and its cause.
In addition to diagnosing existing conditions and monitoring progress, the analysis enables a preventive approach.
Based on the results of the movement analysis, the doctor can identify functional impairments and, together with the physical therapist, tailor the treatment optimally to the patient.
At a joint clinic, doctors offer their patients a dynamic gait analysis. It helps establish the connection between movement, posture, and pain and understand the cause of the pain.
The system has been clinically tested, and its effectiveness has been scientifically proven. The examination is radiation-free and non-invasive; therefore, it does not require surgery.
Using morphological observations (movement observation), doctors examine the externally visible aspects of movement. The invisible aspects of movement include, for example,
To this end, the movement is broken down and analyzed. Every movement can be divided into different movement phases, each of which fulfills an essential function for the success of the movement.
Acyclic movement: The goal of the movement is achieved through a single action. The sequence of movements is irreversible. There are preparatory, main, and final phases.
Cyclic movement: The movement sequence is repeated several times. The final phase of the previous cycle coincides with the preparatory phase of the next one. We thus have a two-phase movement: the main phase and the intermediate phase.
Recording Movement Sequences © Microgen | AdobeStock
With the support of a qualified therapist, the patient gradually masters everyday movements, starting with small and simple steps and working their way up.
Experts refer to this as “progressive learning in stages.” This also includes practicing specific movements and actions in different environmental conditions. In this way, the patient learns to adapt to changing everyday conditions.
Part of the therapy involves providing full or partial support for the patient’s movements through a process known as facilitation. During this therapy, the pace, task, and level of assistance are constantly adjusted.
As the Competence Network explains, the entire therapy process is tailored to the patient’s needs. If the patient is not feeling well, the therapist will take this into account and shorten the training program slightly.
Our movement sequences are highly complex and, due to the structure of our musculoskeletal system, are subject to specific mechanical demands. To analyze and understand this, the sequence must be broken down into separate phases.
Our body obeys certain laws of physics. On the one hand, many external forces act on the musculoskeletal system; on the other hand, we generate forces ourselves. Without this interplay of forces, movement is impossible.
Movement is caused by the forces acting on the body. The magnitude and direction of these forces are particularly relevant here.
Visualizing these forces helps you understand these facts, because only then can you initiate positive changes yourself.
Every physician listed in the Leading Medicine Guide has attained the highest level of training and certification within their respective medical specialty society. Furthermore, we contacted this physician based, among other factors, on their case volume (surgeries, treatments, and therapies), which we determined by cross-referencing various publicly available sources. Following discussions with the selected physicians and the directors of the medical facilities, as well as a subsequent internal review, they were admitted to the Leading Medicine Guide.
The quality assurance of the Leading Medicine Guide is further ensured by 8 admission criteria. Each member must meet at least 6 of them:
