Biomechanical Investigations of Sound and Prosthetic Gait

Abstract

We will look into the history and current techniques of the biomechanical analysis of gait. The assumptions and limitations of the modeling of the human body in motion are considered, as they should be understood to better interpret data. The architecture of gait analysis and the equipment for collecting kinematic and dynamic parameters are discussed. In the analysis of prosthetic gait, an important additional tool is the simultaneous measurement of the forces and pressures applied on an amputee’s residuum. In contrast with video-based gait analysis, the measurement of forces and pressures on the residuum is a technology of contact type, and more attention is required for the adequate interpretation of results.