Description: A gait analysis system is a portable device that allows tracking and evaluating a person’s gait, providing accurate data on their movement pattern. These systems typically include sensors that measure parameters such as stride length, walking speed, support time, and symmetry between limbs. The collected information is used to identify gait abnormalities, which can be crucial for the rehabilitation of patients with injuries or neurological conditions. Furthermore, these devices are becoming increasingly accessible and are integrated into digital platforms that allow healthcare professionals to monitor their patients’ progress remotely. The portability of these systems facilitates their use in various settings, improving adherence to rehabilitation programs and enabling more continuous and effective monitoring of the patient’s condition.
History: Gait analysis has evolved since its beginnings in biomechanics in the 20th century, when manual methods and filming were used to study human movement. With technological advancements, more sophisticated systems began to be developed in the 1980s that incorporated sensors and computers for more precise analysis. In the 2000s, the miniaturization of technology and the rise of wearable devices led to the creation of gait analysis systems that could be used outside of laboratories, facilitating their use in rehabilitation and sports.
Uses: Gait analysis systems are primarily used in rehabilitation to assess and treat patients with orthopedic, neurological, or chronic conditions. They are also used in sports to optimize athlete performance, helping to prevent injuries by identifying inefficient movement patterns. Additionally, these systems can be useful in clinical research to study gait in specific populations, such as the elderly or individuals with disabilities.
Examples: A practical example of using a gait analysis system is the ‘GaitRite’ device, which is used in physical therapy clinics to assess patients’ gait and adjust their rehabilitation programs. Another example is the use of wearable sensors in athletes to analyze their running technique and improve performance, as done by the company ‘RunScribe.’
