Motion Laboratory

The Motion Analysis Lab was established with the generous support of Clarice and Berl Osborne from the United Kingdom, and Irving Montak from the United States.

ALYN hospital provides a clinical service through its state of the art motion analysis laboratory, both from a technological aspect, as well as a unique approach to multidisciplinary decision making.

The motion analysis laboratory is centered around the MOTEK gait real-time assessment interactive laboratory (GRAIL). This includes a ten-camera high resolution Vicon motion tracking system, three high-speed video cameras, an instrumented treadmill with two degrees of freedom and integrated force plates, up to 28 channels of wireless high-quality Delsys surface electromyography electrodes and an immersive virtual and augmented reality projection system. Additionally, ultrasound system is used for advanced analyses of muscle-tendon function, both in passive and dynamic conditions.

The motion analysis laboratory offers three specialized clinical services, all with evidence-based approaches that are continuously updated according to the latest research.

Functional gait analysis

This involves an in-depth three-dimensional biomechanical and neurophysiological analysis, based on a large sample of gait strides, with the aim of answering a specific clinical question from a referring physician or therapist. The analysis is optimized according to the referral, and is used to assist orthopedic and neurosurgeons regarding intervention planning, defining a rehabilitation plan (including decisions regarding orthoses/assistive devices), monitoring change over time and optimizing the long-term clinical management plan. This service involves regular multidisciplinary team discussions (including the referring physician/therapist) as well as taking into consideration (and emphasizing) the need for a holistic approach to clinical-decision making. For children too small or unable to walk on the treadmill, or in cases where a full three-dimensional analysis is not required, a two-dimensional high-speed video and spatial-temporal analysis is performed on the ground.

Functional biofeedback training:

Using the information from the gait analysis, functional treatment goals are defined and targeted using the innovative virtual and augmented reality components of the motion analysis laboratory. The goals, defined by both therapist and patient, range from improving postural stability, gait quality and function, dynamic balance and endurance, all within highly engaging, fun and interactive environments while incorporating real-time biofeedback. Patients perform multiple training sessions on a weekly basis, over the course of a few weeks, with the aim of preparing them with the skills to incorporate these functional gains into their activities of daily life.

Objective evaluation of ataxia and dyskinesia:

A relatively recent addition, the integration of an existing clinical scale (dyskinesia impairment scale), together with neurophysiological signals from the motion analysis laboratory allow for an objective assessment for the quantification of dyskinesia and ataxia of the entire body. This service is in close collaboration with pediatric neurologists and neurosurgeons, with the aim of providing them with a more robust and objective assessment to optimize treatment planning for dyskinesia and ataxia, both medical and surgical.

To schedule an appointment for one of the above services at the motion analysis laboratory, please email a copy of your referral to walklab@alyn.org, or contact a member of the secretarial staff at 02-6494277. For more information regarding the services of the motion analysis laboratory, such as private appointments, please contact Simon or Itai at 02-6494287, or via walklab@alyn.org.