Paul Harradine1, Lucy Gates2, Catherine Bowen3. 1. The Podiatry Centre, 77 Chatsworth Ave, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 2UH, UK. Electronic address: podiathing@yahoo.co.uk. 2. University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton, Hants, SO17 1BJ, UK. Electronic address: L.Gates@soton.ac.uk. 3. University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton, Hants, SO17 1BJ, UK. Electronic address: C.J.Bowen@soton.ac.uk.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The aim of this review was to evaluate and summarise the current evidence on non-computerised or non-recorded real time adult gait assessment conducted within the clinical musculoskeletal setting. It was hoped a protocol for best practice and a framework for further research could be developed from this search. RESEARCH QUESTION: Can a protocol for best practice and a framework for further research be established from previous literature relating to non-computerised or non-recorded real time adult gait analysis in a musculoskeletal clinical setting. METHODS: A literature review with no limitation on date of publication was conducted on the 18th February 2017. RESULTS: The review found no significantly informative papers relating to the search SIGNIFICANCE: The lack of research on the accuracy, reliability and therefore worth of this highly recommended area of musculoskeletal assessment raises concerns over current assessment and treatment pathways. Further work to develop a method by which gait analysis can be routinely employed in musculoskeletal clinics as a diagnostic tool is required, with any new approach undertaking robust methodological testing.
BACKGROUND: The aim of this review was to evaluate and summarise the current evidence on non-computerised or non-recorded real time adult gait assessment conducted within the clinical musculoskeletal setting. It was hoped a protocol for best practice and a framework for further research could be developed from this search. RESEARCH QUESTION: Can a protocol for best practice and a framework for further research be established from previous literature relating to non-computerised or non-recorded real time adult gait analysis in a musculoskeletal clinical setting. METHODS: A literature review with no limitation on date of publication was conducted on the 18th February 2017. RESULTS: The review found no significantly informative papers relating to the search SIGNIFICANCE: The lack of research on the accuracy, reliability and therefore worth of this highly recommended area of musculoskeletal assessment raises concerns over current assessment and treatment pathways. Further work to develop a method by which gait analysis can be routinely employed in musculoskeletal clinics as a diagnostic tool is required, with any new approach undertaking robust methodological testing.