Movement Laboratory

Tel Hashomer’s Gait and Posture Laboratory, also known as the Institute for Motor Functions, serves as an invaluable medical-technological tool for Gait & Posture Analysis. 

The diagnosis is recommended for children and adults who experience difficulties with walking, posture, or mobility due to orthopedic issues, neurological disorders, birth defects, amputations, injuries, or any other limitations affecting movement, with a focus on walking. 

Years of scientific research have shown that a gait lab can detect and measure any walking disorder. By scientifically mapping pathological conditions and providing comprehensive holistic treatment recommendations, we can assist treating authorities in addressing the following: 
 
●      Recommendations for the treating physician - performing procedures/surgeries.
●      Physiotherapy treatments
●      Orthopedic accessories
●      Further clarification as needed
 
The technology in the gait laboratory at the Tel Hashomer Medical Center enables accurate diagnosis of gait and posture and a comprehensive assessment of critical data for gait and posture. 

These include ranges of motion of the limb joints, along with measuring and modeling the impact of limb movement on the position of the pelvis and skeleton. This technique is superior to a diagnosis solely based on an expert's observation, because technology allows for a precise quantitative measurement of each joint on its own and integration of all the findings. These capabilities go beyond what a human expert can accurately deduce through mere observation.
 
A multi-professional team performs the test and data analysis:
●      Orthopedic specialists in the field of movement analysis.
●      Specialist physiotherapists in the field of movement analysis.
●      Technical manager responsible for operating the systems.
 
With accurate diagnosis, our team can provide a comprehensive summary of recommendations for optimal treatment, enhancing its effectiveness.
 
 Diagnosis in the Gait and Posture laboratory includes:
●      Anamnesis related movement problems
●      Physical examination by a physiotherapist
●      Video footage of the walk in two directions using the laboratory system
●      Attaching infrared markers and EMG electrodes (without piercing) to the limbs and walking test.
●      Foot pressure test while walking on a special rail.
 
Upon completion of the examination, the laboratory team conducts a comprehensive analysis of the data collected through the various means. A summary report is then provided, including treatment recommendations, an evaluation of the gait issue, and a detailed description of the findings.
 
Experience

To date, the Gait and Posture Laboratory at the Tel Hashomer Medical Center has diagnosed hundreds of cases. The findings and recommendations from these diagnoses contribute to a better understanding of limitations and assist in making decisions about the type and scope of surgeries and treatments. This helps prevent unnecessary suffering, expenses, and complicated procedures whose contribution is questionable.  Instead, we can achieve improved results by using a more limited set of interventions while conducting a thorough and precise review of laboratory findings.
 
Clinical research services
 
We conduct various research projects in the field of movement, posture, and gait in collaboration with researchers from universities and industry. Within our laboratory framework, you have the option to rent assessment and modeling services for body movement, as well as tests for innovative walking aids in the medical devices field, and for measuring the effect of drugs on movement, walking and posture, and more.

You can initiate clinical research on topics like walking aids, orthopedic shoes, and more by reaching out directly to the laboratory or the director of the rehabilitation technology center.