About Your Visit

What is the Motion Analysis center?

Opened in 1994, the Motion Analysis Center (or MAC as we like to call it) is a high tech facility for the study of human movement. The MAC specializes in clinical gait analysis and added upper body motion analysis in 2008.

What is motion analysis?

Motion analysis simply refers to a detailed, computerized evaluation of one's movement.

How is it done?

The MAC uses special high speed cameras like those used to make video games and animated movie characters. These cameras let us create a 3-D model of your movement pattern in our computer. Other technology includes special force scales built into the floor, muscle electrodes and pressure sensors. Your movements are then graphed and compared to normal movement. The information gathered is studied carefully by our team of experts to better understand your movement.

Does it hurt?

The motion analysis test is not painful. Most complaints are from the removal of the tape holding the markers and muscle sensors on your skin. If you get tired during the study, breaks can be taken at any time.

What does the MAC do with the information collected?

Within a week or two, the MAC team sits down to review all the information gathered during your test. A complete, detailed report with recommendations will be typed up for your doctor.

How soon will my doctor get the results?

A good estimate is within 4 weeks following your test date. Talk to the MAC staff if the results are needed sooner (e.g., if surgery is scheduled).

What will my doctor do with the MAC report?

Your doctor will likely review it with you at your next visit. It is up to you and your doctor to decide what to do with the information.

Will I need to return to the MAC?

Many patients are seen more than once; however, generally a period of months or even years passes between studies. The information we collect about your movement(s) at any point in time can always be compared to your movement(s) at another point in time. This is true no matter how much time has passed. This is very helpful in the event there has been a major change or treatment.

Why is it done?

The technology gives us much more information about how you move than one can get by simploy observing you in an office or clinic setting.

The information can be used in a variety of important ways:

• Treatment planning

• Carefully evaluating the effect of various treatments. This may include surgery, medication, therapy, bracing or assistive devices.

• Monitoring change in your movement ability over time.

Contact Information

For more information or to make a referral, please contact the Motion Analysis Center at:

Phone

616.493.9833

Email

GaitLab@MaryFreeBed.com

Download

Motion Analysis Center Referral Form