Recommendations of the GAMMA association for the standardization of clinical movement analysis laboratories

Abstract

Clinical gait analysis involves objective, valid, and reliable techniques for assessing gait function and is crucial for assessing walking patterns and identifying gait abnormalities in various patient populations. By analyzing joint angles, muscle activity, and other biomechanical factors during walking, clinicians can diagnose gait disorders, plan interventions, and improve patient outcomes. The GAMMA association aims to provide recommendations to support the standardization and quality assurance for clinical-instrumented 3D motion analysis services within the German-speaking region in central Europe. The practice recommendations described in this paper cover among others (i) technical requirements for recording data on level ground and on treadmills, (ii) staff management, (iii) recommendations for measurement equipment and quality assurance procedures, (iv) patient referral management, (v) practical recommendations for data acquisition, management, and reporting, and (vi) information to consider when setting up a new gait analysis facility. The GAMMA association aspires for these clinical practice guidelines to enhance motion analysis services, leading to better and more standardized clinical practices, which further contribute to improved patient care, and better conditions for research in central Europe.

Keywords: Gait analysis; Human movement analysis; Motion capture; Standards.