ÌÀÍ·Ìõapp

Motion analysis is one of the most effective ways to objectively study how people walk or otherwise move their bodies. By using specialized cameras, computer technology captures and measures muscle activity, joint motion and forces, as well as pressure under the feet during walking.

We offer this sophisticated assessment for children and adults at the Computerized Motion Analysis Laboratory at Shirley Ryan ÌÀÍ·Ìõapp ¡ª the only clinical center of its kind in the Chicago metropolitan area and one of only a few in the United States serving both children and adults with gait and movement disorders.

Motion analysis is a noninvasive evaluation that analyzes the walking pattern (gait) and upper-extremity movement in people with a range of movement disorders.

During an assessment, you will first be videotaped while walking. Then, you will undergo a thorough physical exam to measure the range of motion in your joints and muscle strength of your upper or lower extremities. Markers covered with a special tape then will be placed on specific anatomical landmarks on your legs and/or arms, along with small ¡°muscle microphones,¡± or electrodes.

Cameras will track the movements of the markers as you move, and the electrodes will record the activity and coordination of specific muscle groups that produce or control the movement. It may take as many as 10-20 trials to record your natural movement. Following your analysis, we will send results to your physician, including both a written report and a CD with animations that reproduce your movements from the test.

• Cerebral palsy
• Spina bifida
• Spinal cord injury
• Hip and joint disorders
• Diabetes
• Stroke or cerebral vascular disease
• Brain injury
• Joint injuries or abnormalities
• Muscular dystrophies
• Neurogenerative disease, such as: Parkinson¡¯s disease, multiple sclerosis and dementia
• Balance disorders
• Brace or prosthetic device modifications
• ¡­ and more

• Bring comfortable clothing to wear, such as elastic waist shorts and a T-shirt or tank top, with a sports bra if applicable
• Bring braces and/or assistive devices if applicable
• Bring your insurance card and a photo ID
• Prescription from referring physician
• Complete the background questionnaire that you will receive when your appointment is confirmed (included in your confirmation package)

To learn more about computerized motion analysis, visit our FAQ page.

If you are a patient ready to make an appointment for computerized motion analysis, please call us at 312.238.1447. If you are a physician looking to refer a patient, please visit our page for clinicians for referral information or to fill out our .