Motion Analysis Laboratory Opens for CP Patients

In recent years technology has greatly changed the way doctors determine how to treat neuromuscular problems like cerebral palsy in children. Recently, Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago opened a state-of-the-art Motion Analysis Laboratory that joins existing equipment and newer technology together.

Different Devises Capture Children’s Movement

According to members of the staff at Shriner’s, one device used in the laboratory helps to capture the way the body parts move when patients who have abnormalities walk. The devise does so by putting markers on placed areas, such as the pelvis, knees and ankles, and the markers invisible light to the video cameras placed around the room. Data from the cameras are then sent to a computer that develops a multi-dimensional figure of the patient that shows the amount of bending that occurs at the ankles, knees and hips. “The natural tendency is to focus on one problem,” explains Dr. Peter Smith, who helped open the laboratory, “but the motion analysis helps to identify all the different segments of the body and how they’re working together.”

Programs Aim to Help Children Have Fun

Another aspect of the laboratory that Smith and his colleagues were conscious of was the need to incorporate a sense of excitement for the children into the devises and exercises. When young patients with disabilities like cerebral palsy go to the laboratory they can also see how movement is captured by actors and then copied into various video games and animated films. (Source: Chicago Tribune) Do you have a child who was born with cerebral palsy? If so, please contact us today to speak with an experienced cerebral palsy attorney who will ensure the rights of your loved ones are being protected.