title: A dynamic model of the upper extremities for quantitative assessment of Lofstrand crutch-assisted gait.
abstract: Appropriate models for quantitative evaluation of upper extremity dynamics in children with myelomeningocele are limited. Therefore, a three-dimensional (3D) biomechanical model of the upper extremities was developed for quantification during Lofstrand crutch-assisted gait in children with myelomeningocele. The model accurately tracks the joint angles of the trunk, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and crutches. Lofstrand crutches are instrumented with six-axis load cells to obtain force and moment components. The model is applied while performing crutch-assisted ambulatory patterns (alternate gait and swing-through gait). Analysis indicates that the model is suitable for quantifying upper extremity motion during crutch-assisted gait. This model has been designed for dynamic assessment of ambulatory patterns (upper and lower extremities) that present with pediatric myelomeningocele. It is hoped that the study findings will prove useful through advances in treatment monitoring, crutch prescription and therapeutic planning.
authors.affiliation: Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Engineering Center, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
authors.forename: B A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Slavens
authors.forename: P F
authors.initials: PF
authors.lastname: Sturm
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Wang
authors.forename: G F
authors.initials: GF
authors.lastname: Harris
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena / Q000379:methods; D002648:Child; D003446:Crutches; D005260:Female; D020233:Gait Disorders, Neurologic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008591:Meningomyelocele / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D008954:Models, Biological; D009068:Movement; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000503:physiopathology*