Paediatric Gait Analysis Lab

The Paediatric Gait Analysis Laboratory is a large clinical research space where clinicians and researchers can assess the function and physical capacity of children who are participating in research projects and clinical trials.

We collect sophisticated 3D measurements to look at how children’s bodies move, their limb motion, muscle strength, plantar pressure, walking ability, as well as their coordination, balance, endurance and power. These data are processed and analysed to understand how a disease or disability can affect a child’s function and quality of life– and how we can intervene to help.

The Gait Lab is fully equipped with an 8 camera Vicon MX motion capture system, three AMTI forceplates, a wireless 16 channel EMG system, split-screen 2D video analysis equipment, access to a comprehensive suite of plantar pressure hardware and software, a tandem instrumented walkway, isometric dynamometers and several specialised test jigs for the study of the neurological and musculoskeletal system. The laboratory has both extramural as well as intramural collaborations with Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Departments.

The Gait Lab was built with the assistance of a generous capital donation from The Humpty Dumpty Foundation, and we are very grateful for their ongoing interest and generous support of our service.

Research

We undertake gait analysis studies and physical assessment projects to enhance treatment outcomes. We strive to translate basic research into routine clinical practice. The Paediatric Gait Analysis Laboratory is collaborating with Australian and international centres to promote the exchange of ideas and enhance basic knowledge of walking patterns in healthy and disease situations.

Paediatric Gait Analysis Service of NSW

The Paediatric Gait Analysis Service of NSW sees children from all over NSW with movement disorders such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and other neuromuscular disorders. Children who are being considered for complex procedures and surgery first undergo 3D Gait Analysis in the Paediatric Gait Analysis Laboratory to assess how they move and walk. This detailed information is then reviewed by a team of clinicians, including specialists of orthopaedics, rehabilitation, physiotherapy and biomechanics, in order to help make decisions about the child’s treatment. A post-operative gait analysis may also be undertaken to assess the results of each procedure and provide the surgical team with important feedback for future treatment.