Summary - Ambulation problems
in cerebral palsy have been very difficult to analyse because it is the central
control system rather than the motor system that is at fault. Until recently,
decisions regarding surgical management has been made on clinical grounds, which
by and large, have been subjective. Attempts to remedy this situation has resulted
in the setting up of Gait Analysis Laboratories to provide a more objective
method of evaluation of disorders of human motion.
We have recently been using an opto-electronci computer-based gait analysis
system to analyse normal as well as abnormal gait. Gait analysis can provide
information regarding movements of both lower limbs in three planes, ground
reaction forces, joint torque and dynamic electromyography. Children with various
types of Cerebral Palsy have been assessed. The results of four clinical gait
assessment cases are presented and discussed. Information provided by the Gait
Analysis Laboratory has introduced more objectivity in pre-operative planning
for these children.