Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment Center

The Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment Center provides in-depth analysis of children with gait abnormalities and scoliosis. The laboratory is located in the Pediatric Orthopaedics Clinic at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. Gait analysis is performed via an electromagnetic motion tracking system with 16 sensors to capture kinematic data from children during walking trials. Electromyography is used to gather data on subjects' muscle activity patterns. The laboratory is also equipped with an EMED plantar pressure platform and a PEDAR insole pressure system that can measure dynamic plantar pressure during a child's ambulation.

In addition to providing gait analysis, the laboratory monitors spinal curvature in children with scoliosis using Quantec Raster Stereography and a recently developed Spinal Scanner. These methods are radiation free and are often used to supplement X-rays or as an alternative to X-rays to monitor the progression of idiopathic scoliosis in children. They can also be used to evaluate scoliosis patients pre and post spinal surgery. A newly installed EOS imaging system provides scoliosis images with greatly reduced radiation exposure and a weight-bearing 3D view of the spine.

The center is involved in peer-reviewed research grants and funded projects. Projects include: a study to develop new orthotics, a pediatric segmental foot model, a device for growth modulation of scoliosis, a kinematic study on ACL injuries. Our experienced team consists of physicians, PTs, engineers, post-doctoral fellows, residents, research associates, and medical students.