The data fields of “Patient ID”; “Age”; “Diagnosis” and “Assessment Date” appear at the top of the form and can be left blank, if desired. The field of “Observed Side” should be completed to note which side was analyzed. It is strongly recommended to include on the form any walking aid that was used, such as a cane, crutches, etc.
The gait deviations table consists of 4 rows which list the different intervals of gait, i.e. IDS, SS etc. The columns list 6 different joints and body segments. Each cell (i.e. the intersection of a row and column) identifies the deviation occurring at the specific joint and interval. E.g. the cell at the intersection of “Knee” column and “Swing” row identifies the deviations observed at the knee joint during the Swing interval. This cell lists all the possible deviations that can be expected at the knee during this interval. While each cell provides a comprehensive list of deviations that would be observed in the vast majority of patients, there could be an occasional deviation that is not present in the cell. When observing a patient’s gait, the deviations in the appropriate cells are checked, if the deviation is present. If no deviation is observed at a joint or during an interval, no deviation is checked.
The 4 boxes below the table show the various temporal and spatial gait parameters. Step length and Stance Time are evaluated for symmetry between the left and right sides. In case of asymmetry between the two sides, the appropriate box (Right > Left or Left < Right) should be selected. The box for step width indicates “Narrow” step or a “Wide” step, while the “Toe Angle” box should be selected in case of a “Toe in” or “Toe Out” gait pattern.
The “Intervention Focus” box identifies the areas that should be addressed during the intervention for improving gait. This box follows the “B.E.E.P.S.” rule.