A review of analytical techniques for gait data. Part 1: Fuzzy, statistical and fractal methods.

In recent years, several new approaches to gait data analysis have been explored, including fuzzy systems, multivariate statistical techniques and fractal dynamics. Through a critical survey of recent gait studies, this paper reviews the potential of these methods to strengthen the gait laboratory's analytical arsenal. It is found that time-honoured multivariate statistical methods are the most widely applied and understood. Although initially promising, fuzzy and fractal analyses of gait data remain largely unknown and their full potential is yet to be realized. The trend towards fusing multiple techniques in a given analysis means that additional research into the application of these two methods will benefit gait data analysis.