Gait scores: Interpretations and limitations

Abstract

Gait analysis (GA) represents a fundamental method by which quantitative information is collected to aid in understanding the level of functional limitation due to pathology, observing its evolution over time and evaluating rehabilitative intervention effects. Essential to the method is the interpretation of the data provided by gait analysis by an experienced, interdisciplinary team with substantial knowledge in normal and pathologic gait. A typical gait analysis evaluation procedure could include the computing of both specific parameters (values of the plots in specific instant of the gait cycle, maximum values, range of motions, etc.) and summary measures (one of few scores which quantify the deviation of a patient's gait pattern from normality). The use of specific parameters produces a vast amount of data and graphs; for this reason, despite its objectivity, its use could be complicated, and the data interpretation is difficult. Thus, there is a growing awareness of the need for a summary index, specifically, a single measure of the "quality" of a particular gait pattern.