VIDEO VECTOR

The laboratory has a video vector system which allows sagittal and coronal views of the patient to be recorded simultaneously with the Ground Reaction Force superimposed onto the image. This system utilises the force plate embedded in the floor of the laboratory and the digital video cameras.

When a person steps on the ground they apply a force to the ground and the group applies an equal and opposite force back. Using the Video Vector system it is possible to look at where the ground reaction force is in relation to the ankle, knee and hip joint. This data is then analysed to make an assessment of where the ground reaction force is acting and if this is appropriate. It is not possible to perform video vector analysis if someone is walking with the aid of a rollator or walking frame.

Benefits:

The video vector analysis gives the video which enables the movement to be analysed again and again but also adds extra information in the form of the ground reaction force.

This technique is particularly useful when looking at people who are wearing splints as it is possible to tune the splints to give a better movement of the ground reaction force through gait.

Appointment:

During a video vector analysis appointment the patient is asked to wear shorts and t-shirt (the appointment letter will ask them to bring these). We may roll the shorts up in order to get a clearer view of what is happening. The patient will be asked to walk up and down the laboratory a few times whilst video vector information is being collected. If possible we collect data initially with the patient in barefoot. If a patient has splints we may also record them using these.

Once all the required video data has been collected a clinical examination is performed by the physiotherapist.