Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) system is an analysis system which connects motion analysis system, surface electromyography and pressure plate though a set of network. It analyzes kinematics and dynamic of the gait using the providing real-time data such as mechanics and optics.
OBJECTIVE: To introduce the quantitative evaluation of human gait function with 3DGA so as to analyze abnormal motion, design training plan of rehabilitative therapy, evaluate rehabilitative curative effect, make orthosis and provide objective evidence for patients of children.
METHODS: We searched for articles about gait analysis between January 1991 and February 2010 in PubMed database with the key words of “three dimensional gait analysis and children” in English. A total of 136 articles were retrieved. We chose the articles about the evaluation of the scientific research and clinic in children's motion function by 3DGA system and eliminated obsolete and repeated trials ones. We chose articles which published recently or published in an authoritative magazine among the same field literatures. Finally, 28 articles were selected.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There liability in 3DGA surpasses that in observational gait analysis (OGA) as a means of assessment. The major components of 3DGA are motion analysis system, pressure plat and the surface EMG. Musculoskeletal models response to the basic anatomy and structure in the 3DGA system. 3DGA system is an advanced tool that can assess human gait objectively, which is widely used in assessment of motion function of children. Application of 3DGA system for motion function in children: the diagnosis and analysis of abnormal gait, assessment before a certain treatment, assessment of the effectiveness and prognosis. 3DGA system is a reliable and systemic tool to assess the effectiveness of clinical trail. It is widely used abroad in research and assessment of motor function in adults. But it is not mature in evaluation of motor function in children.