Three dimensional motion analysis of the pediatric foot and ankle

Recent advancements in camera design and software implementation have allowed a more detailed quantitative analysis of the pediatric foot and ankle using a passive marker system. This preliminary study reports on foot and ankle kinematics of seven normal children using an unconstrained, three-segment, rigid body model. Motion of the surface markers was indexed to the underlying bony anatomy using a series of clinical X-rays. A modified hindfoot radiograph was used for coronal alignment of the calcaneus. Kinematic foot segment data from the seven children is presented (3 trials per side) and averaged(n=42). There have been few reports in the literature on pediatric foot and ankle motion, however, the kinematics generally agree with those described in previous adult studies. The described system appears to be appropriate for further clinical study.