Revolutionizing clinical movement analysis: a novel approach using a wireless human motion capture system combined with computed myography in assessing coxarthrosis impact on joint contact forces

Jäckle, Katharina; Meier, Marc-Pascal; Hawellek, Thelonius; Roch, Paul-Jonathan; Homann, Colja; Castro, WilliamHM; Wagner, Heiko; Boström, Kim; Lehmann, Wolfgang; Weiser, Lukas

Abstract

Introduction: Changes in gait patterns often occur with hip osteoarthritis ({OA}). Clinically, these changes can sometimes be challenging to detect. Traditional gait analysis is often only feasible under laboratory conditions and not part of the routine clinical practice. In this study, changes in the biomechanics of squatting and walking associated of patients with hip {OA} were analyzed in a clinical setting using the novel method called Computed {MyoGraphy} ({CMG}). Material and Methods: Movement patterns of individuals with primary hip {OA} (n = 11; age: 58.82 ± 5.95) and healthy individuals (n = 10; age: 60.40 ± 19.22) were compared. Using the Xsens Awinda system in combination with the novel method of {CMG}, kinematic, data of two movements, namely “walking” and “squatting,” were recorded and analyzed to obtain the joint contact forces ({JCFs}) of hip and knee joints. Results: The total and shear {JCFs} of both hip and knee joints were reduced for {OA} patients as compared to healthy subjects. For the hip joint, differences were more pronounced on the affected side as compared to the unaffected side. Conclusions: The reduced {JCFs} observed with primary hip {OA} patients, particularly on the affected side, are likely responses to pain and other limitations when performing squatting exercises and walks. The newly developed {CMG} methodology presented in this study provides a standardized and objective approach for gait analysis of patients which could be safely conducted under clinical conditions.