Multi-joint Human Walking Arthrokinematics Using Biplanar Videoradiography

Abstract:

Biplanar Videoradiography (BVR) enables three-dimensional bone kinematics analysis using x-ray videos and bone geometry from segmented CT. Hindered by a small capture volume relative to traditional optical motion capture (MOCAP), BVR applications to human movement are generally limited to single-joint motions with constrained range. Here, a hybrid procedure is developed for multi-joint gait analysis using BVR and MOCAP in tandem. MOCAP effectively extends the BVR field-of-view. Three healthy adult subjects walked at a self-selected pace along a level walkway while BVR, MOCAP, and ground reaction forces were collected. A novel methodology was developed to register separate BVR measurements of the knee and ankle-foot complex. Kinematic analysis of bones surrounding the knee and ankle was performed. Kinematics obtained using this technique were compared to those calculated using only MOCAP during stance phase. Results show that this hybrid protocol effectively measures knee and ankle kinematics in all three body planes. The proposed procedure offers a novel approach to human gait analysis capable of more precise measurement of ankle joint mobility, whose complexities are often simplified in MOCAP studies.

Advisor:
Hugh Herr