Motion Analysis Laboratory
The Motion Analysis Laboratory is a highly specialized program at Mary Free Bed. Our team of experts includes physical therapists, biomechanical engineers and physicians who are specially trained in analyzing data using advanced technology and equipment.
Motion Analysis Lab at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation
What is The Motion Analysis Laboratory?
Established in 1994, the Motion Analysis Lab is Michigan’s leader in computerized gait analysis.
Our team uses advanced tools and technology to study the way you walk and move. We use 16 different motion-capture cameras – like those used to create video games and animated characters – in order to generate a 3D model of your movement pattern. Â
Additional motion analysis technology, including force platforms built into the floor, muscle electrodes and a foot pressure measurement system, helps us graph your movement. We then use this information to compare your movements to typical movements.
Who We Serve
We serve patients with a wide range of diagnoses causing complex gait abnormalities, including but not limited to:
Cerebral Palsy
Brain Injury
Spina Bifida
Stroke
Amputation
Spinal Cord Lesions
Orthopedic and Joint Disorders
Club Foot and Other Foot Deformities
Other Neurological Disorders
Our Team
We have the most experienced team of clinical gait analysis experts in the state. Our professionals use an evidence-based approach to provide recommendations to your treatment team.
Our staff actively pursues research and education to better understand and treat human motion problems. Members are active in the Gait & Clinical Movement Analysis Society and the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine. Â
Team members also lecture current and future health care professionals and collaborate on research opportunities with physical therapy students and other rehabilitation practitioners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are questions we often hear from patients who have experienced an amputation. Talk with your treatment team about specific questions or concerns.Â
What are the advantages of computerized motion analysis?
Motion analysis gives your treatment team better information about how you move. The information can be used in:Â Â
- Planning your treatmentÂ
- Evaluation of the effectiveness of treatments such as surgery, medication, therapy, bracing or assistive devicesÂ
- Monitoring changes in your walking or other movement over timeÂ
- Improving the way your brace or artificial limb works
How long does a test take?
A motion analysis study can take anywhere from three to five hours. The duration depends on several factors, including the type of assessments being performed.Â
Your visit will begin with a brief introduction to the team. Then, we’ll work with you to collect information in different ways. We might:
- Videotape you walking and making certain movementsÂ
- Analyze your footprintÂ
- Complete a physical examination to get precise measurements of your bodyÂ
- Run an electromyography (EMG) scan to record what your muscles do as you moveÂ
- Use video motion capture to create a 3D model of your movement
Is a motion analysis difficult or painful?
No, and we try to make the time as enjoyable as possible. When you’re not walking, you can watch a movie, listen to music, check your phone, or simply chat with our friendly staff. We also have snacks!
How will I know the results?
Our team creates a detailed report of your motion analysis study and our recommendations. We’ll pass this information along to your doctor about four weeks after your analysis. Please let our staff know if your doctor needs the results sooner (for example, if a surgery is scheduled).Â
Your doctor will review the motion analysis report with you at your next visit. Together, you and your doctor will determine how to use the information as part of your rehabilitation program.
What if I have questions?
For more information, call us between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays at 616.840.8050.
