Assignment Description:

Gait data (motion capture and force reactions) was obtained for a number of subjects using a range of equipment in the Gait Lab during class time. In this assignment, you will apply biomechanical methods covered in the unit to process the collected data and to investigate the difference between a subject's normal gait and "toe walking".

The format for your report is a scientific report. It should be structured in the conventional way with an introduction, methods, results and discussion section. A number of articles have been provided on the Blackboard site to assist you in adopting an appropriate writing style. The following is a guide only and is not intended to be exclusive.

Introduction (500 words max)

Give a brief introduction to gait analysis, inverse dynamics and meaning of net muscle moments. Formulate an objective for the report i.e. comparison of normal and pathological gait (toe walking) Materials and Methods (1000 words max)

Describe in brief the methods used to collect the data. Consider anthropometry measures, force plate and motion capture data including the marker model used (i.e. "plug-in-gait lower limb).

Provide a detailed description of any calculations performed including free-body-diagrams and equations.

From the motion capture data, quantify the following gait cycle parameters (step length, stride length, base of support, step duration, stride duration, velocity and cadence)

Calculate joint angles at the ankle and the knee for a complete gait cycle

Calculate the net moments at the ankle, knee and hip joints for a complete gait cycle

Results (500 words max)

This section should present calculated variables ideally presented in a combination of appropriate tables and figures. Limit the number of figures to those that are essential. Combine information into a single figure where appropriate (i.e. multiple trials/subjects).

You may compare results here (i.e. measure A was greater than measure B) but the interpretation of the results comes in the next section.

Discussion (1000 words max)

In the discussion section, you should consider at least the following;

- Establish the validity of your calculations by comparison with other available data sets (i.e. the "Winter data set provided") and any other sources
- Compare and discuss the differences between normal gait and toe-walking, how are the muscle activation patterns changed (refer to the calculated net muscle moment)
- Describe the basic assumptions (limitations) used in the biomechanical analysis and the main sources of error.

Attachment:- Analysis Assignment.rar