Unit 4: Observational Gait Analysis

what is observational gait analysis?

a qualitative assessment method used to evaluate a person's walking pattern through visual observation. It focuses on identifying abnormalities in movement, posture, and coordination to inform diagnosis and treatment.

what is the rancho los amigos OGA system?

A standardized observational gait analysis tool that categorizes gait components into different phases for assessment and intervention. not every clinic uses it though. Made by the same team that produces Dr. Perry’s gait terminology

what components of the trunk does the rancho los amigos include?

backward lean, forward lean, lateral lean, and rotates back/forward (B or F)

what components of the pelvis is included on the rancho los amigos OGA system?

hikes (elevation of one side of the pelvis), posterior tilt, anterior tilt, lacks forward rotation, lacks backward rotation, excessive forward rotation, excess backward rotation, ipsilateral drop, contralateral drop

what components of hip movement are included in the rancho los amigos OGA system?

limited flexion, excess flexion, past retract, internal rotation, external rotation, adduction, abduction

what does past retract refer to?

a visible forward and then backward movement of the thigh during TSw (terminal swing)

what components of knee movement are included in the rancho los amigos OGA system?

limited flexion, excess flexion, wobbles, hyperextends, extension thrust, varus/valgus, excessive contralateral flexion

what does wobbles refer to?

alternating flexion and extension of the knee during a single phase

what does extension thrust refer to?

the forceful motion of the knee beyond neutral extension

what components of ankle/foot movement are included in the rancho los amigos OGA system?

forefoot contact, foot-flat contact, foot slap, excess plantar flexion, excess dorsiflexion, excess inversion/eversion, heel off, no heel off, drag, contralateral vaulting, up, inadequate extension, clawed/hammered

what does contralateral vaulting refer to?

rising of the forefoot of the opposite stance limb during SLA (single limb advance)

what does clawed/hammered refer to of the ankle/foot?

flexion of the DIP joints and flexion or extension of the PIPs

what are the general guidelines of gait observation?

1. select the joint or body segment to be observed and mentally review the normative joint positions and muscle activity for the phase of gait period being observed

2. select the side of the patients body that will be observed first

3. observe the selected body segement at a specific phase and decide abt the segments joint position. note any deviations

4. observe the same body segment during the next phase or another segment at the same phase of the gait period

5. always perform observation on both sides, although only one side may be involved pathologically, the other side of the body may be affected