A goniometer-based method for the assessment of gait parameters

Basic prerequisites for gait analysis are the assessment of spatio-temporal gait parameters and the analysis of movements within subsequent stride cycles. The aim of the present study is to propose a new method to assess spatio-temporal gait parameters using only 1-degree-of-freedom electrogoniometers positioned on hip and knee joints. The model validation is performed comparing the model results with those automatically obtained from another gait analysis system: GAITRite. The results underline the model reliability and show that the model could be a valid alternative to the traditional methods that use foot switches, ground reaction forces or accelerometers. These results show that essential spatio-temporal gait parameters can be determined during overground walking using only two 1-dof electrogoniometers. The method is easy-to-use and does not interfere with regular walking patterns.