Why are you visiting the centre?
Visitors to the Motion Analysis Centre to receive a 3D gait analysis based on the recommendation of a member of their health-care team. 3D gait analysis captures movements, muscle activity and forces the eye can’t see. This provides us with more information to make decisions about interventions and to track changes over time.
What is 3D Gait Analysis?
3D gait analysis uses 3D motion-capture technology to record the way someone walks. By placing reflective markers on the legs, special cameras can be used to create an avatar to analyze how and when bones/joints move when walking. This is called kinematics.
At the same time, sensors known as electromyography (EMG) electrodes are placed on top of the skin over muscles that are important for walking to see how, when and how much these muscles are working. The sensors can measure how active a muscle is by measuring the electricity it generates. This is called this electromyography (EMG).
The final part of the analysis requires measuring the forces involved in walking. This is needed to understand the stresses and power produced at the ankle, knee and hip joints. This is measured by devices in the floor that use the same technology as a weight scale. This is called kinetics.
Please visit the gait assessment page for more details on 3D gait analysis and the equipment used at the centre.
Where will we do the 3D Gait Analysis?
3D gait assessments are performed in the Motion Analysis Centre (located within Holland Bloorview's High Performance Hub). This is a newly-renovated space (part of the Bloorview Research Institute) on the 5th floor that houses 3D motion capture, muscle monitoring and force-detection technology.
What to bring
How to prepare
Please prepare for your gait assessment by reviewing this web page and reach out to the team if you have any questions or concerns. This will make sure the gait assessment is more comfortable and accurate.
- Do not put lotion, oil, or cream on the legs at least one day prior to the assessment
- Stickers will be placed on, and taken off, the legs. If this will feel uncomfortable on the hair on your legs, please shave at least one day prior to the assessment
- Avoid doing lots of tiring activities the day before, so you have enough energy for the assessment
What to expect at your visit
- Arrive early at Holland Bloorview (150 Kilgour Rd.)
- Arrive 30 minutes early if this is your first visit to Holland Bloorview, as you will need to register on the first floor when you arrive. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early if this is not your first visit to Holland Bloorview
- A staff member will meet you on the second floor, in the waiting area, and bring you to the Motion Analysis Centre
- The physiotherapist and technical staff will answer any questions you may have
- To get ready for the 3D gait assessment you will change into the shorts/tank-top you brought
- Next you will remove your socks, shoes and orthotics (if you wear them) as the assessment will start barefoot
- The physiotherapist will attach reflective markers to your joints and EMG units to your muscles
- The motion capture cameras will capture the position of the markers while you are standing still, before you do any walking
- You will then walk along the path, with your walking aid if needed, while the motion capture cameras are recording
- This entire process will be repeated with your orthotics on (if you wear them)
- While you are walking, your parent(s)/guardian may be asked to complete some questionnaires
- Once the 3D gait capture has finished the physiotherapist will complete the physical assessment with you if necessary
