Three-Dimensional Gait Analysis in a Healthy Geriatric Cohort

# Introduction Three-dimensional gait analysis assesses multiple parameters of lower extremity motion. Neither normative gait patterns nor an understanding of how health and demographic factors impact gait have been established for the geriatric population. # Methods A single time-point observational study from October 2013 to February 2015 recruited 25 healthy geriatric participants within three cohorts: 60-69, 70-79, and 80 years-old and older. Participants underwent static lower extremity range of motion assessment and gait analysis to collect lower extremity joint kinematics, joint kinetics, and spatiotemporal data. Questionnaires and tools included: FRAX, SF-12, and Fried Frailty Index. Data was compared with non-geriatric controls with mature gait patterns. # Results Mean age was 72(SD 8); 44% women. Significant kinematic differences between the geriatric volunteers and controls were observed. Minimum hip flexion was 1.6°(SD 11.9) versus -6.0°(SD 6.9) in controls. Minimum to maximum ankle dorsiflexion was -13.1°(SD 6.3) to 15.8°(SD 3.1) and -21.6°(SD 9.0) to -13.1°(SD 6.3) in controls. Maximum ankle dorsiflexion was significantly different across age cohorts (60-69, 70-79, 80+ respectively): 15.8°(SD 2.9), 13.9°(SD 3.1), 18.0°(SD 1.6). Minimum hip flexion and minimum knee flexion were significantly higher at older ages: 5.7°(SD 7.7) and 9.4°(SD 2.2) respectively in the age 80+ cohort versus -3.2°(SD 13.9) and 5.9°(SD 3.1) in the 60-69 year-olds. # Conclusion Significant kinematic gait differences were observed between geriatric volunteers and controls. Age-related gait differences were found within the geriatric study population. These findings have clinical implications for understanding fall predisposition, directing rehabilitation, and guiding medical and surgical approaches to lessen the impact on gait changes. The study identifies significant declines in geriatric gait and serves as a useful reference for future studies in the geriatric population. # Level of Evidence Prognostic Cohort Study, Level III