What to Bring

• Loose-fitting shorts with an elastic waist for clinical exam, and snug-fitting above knee shorts with an elastic waist for gait analysis. Girls should bring a sleeveless tank top. Please avoid clothing with any reflective markings.
•  Any braces and walking aids (such as crutches, walkers, or canes), if applicable.
• Closed-toe shoes used for walking with and without braces.
• Due to the length of the appointment, please bring a water bottle, snacks and a familiar item, such as a small toy or book.

Arrival and Check-In

Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow time for Registration at Patient Access. Once you have checked in at Patient Access, you will be directed to the Nicklaus Children's Hospital's Gait Analysis Lab in the Medical Arts Building. Use the elevator across from the Publix Pharmacy to go to the third floor, past Neurology to access the Gait Analysis Laboratory.

What to Expect During the Gait Analysis

During their visit to the Gait Analysis Lab, patients will go through a comprehensive evaluation to help determine the best treatment for their specific needs. 

Video Recording

Your child will be videotaped walking across the room from various angles. The recording will allow our specialists to better understand their difficulties walking. The video will also serve as a reference to help our team evaluate the treatment’s effectiveness.

Physical Examination

A physical therapist will conduct a physical exam to evaluate your child’s strength, range of motion and motor control. The therapist will also assess their bone alignment and levels of spasticity. Measuring these attributes will provide insight to help plan treatments.

Movement Analysis

Prior to the start of the movement analysis, reflective markers and electromyography (EMG) sensors are placed on your child’s body. As they walk through the gait lab, special cameras will track the motion of the reflective markers to record their body movements. The EMG sensors will record which muscles engage as your child moves. Additional sensors in the lab floor measures the amount of force placed on your child's joints as they move.

Plantar Pressure Assessment

During the plantar pressure assessment, your child will be asked to walk across a mat will detect the pattern and distribution of pressure underneath their feet. This allows the specialists to analyze data that cameras can’t capture such as force.

Results and Treatment Plan

After the assessment is completed, the data will be displayed in a series of graphs that reflect your child’s movements and muscle activity. Our team of specialists including an orthopedic surgeon, neurologist and physical therapist, will analyze this information and create a specialized treatment plan for your child.

Follow-up Evaluation

In some cases, a follow-up evaluation may be necessary. Additional assessments can help determine whether your child’s treatment has been effective or if it needs to be adjusted.