Motion Analysis Centre
The Motion Analysis Centre (MAC) at the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre uses state-of-the-art technology to assess how joints move and to monitor muscle activity during walking.
What we do
A child who has difficulty walking is a candidate for motion analysis. This difficulty may be due to various conditions, such as:
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
- Brain injury
- Amputation
- Stroke
- Arthritis
Motion analysis typically includes the following:
Video capture
The motion measurement system uses computer-controlled video cameras to record how a person walks. Reflective markers are placed on the skin. The markers are tracked by the cameras and provide information about how the legs move while walking.
Electromyography (EMG)
Special sensors are placed on the skin above the muscles. The sensors measure the electrical activity of the leg muscles, and this information tells the health professional if the muscles are working as they should while the person walks.
Kinetics
Force plates in the floor measure the forces that travel through the legs as the person walks.
Clinical Report
The physician/therapist uses the information from these assessments to complete a report. Motion analysis is not a treatment; however, the information can be used to determine treatment effectiveness or to compare various treatment options.
Our team
Our team is comprised of the following health-care professionals:
- Physiotherapists
- Technology resource consultants
- Orthopedic surgeons
How to access this service
An orthopedic surgeon or physiotherapist will need to see your child for a full assessment. The orthopedic surgeon or physiotherapist will then determine if your child requires a referral to the Motion Analysis Centre (MAC).
Where we are
The Motion Analysis Centre is located on the 1st floor (ground floor) of the Janeway, at the bottom of the stairs near the ship.
Motion Analysis Centre (MAC)
Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre
1st Floor
300 Prince Philip Drive
St. John’s, NL A1B 3V6
Hours of operation
Appointments are offered Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
How to reach us
Motion Analysis Centre
Telephone: 709-777-4881
Physiotherapy Administrative Assistant
Telephone: 709-777-4827
Frequently asked questions
What does my child need to wear for the Motion Analysis Centre (MAC)?
- Form fitting shorts/T-shirt or a bathing suit (2 piece for girls) is acceptable.
- Loose clothing is not appropriate.
- Wear everyday footwear.
- If you use a walker, cane or braces, please bring them.
What happens during the evaluation?
- A physiotherapist will take anthropometric measurements (height, weight, etc.) of your child.
- Reflective markers will be placed on your child’s hips, knees and feet.
- Your child will be asked to walk in a straight line through the centre of the room (~4 metres). This will be repeated several times.
How long will the appointment last?
- Each appointment is scheduled for one hour.
- Your child may require an updated physiotherapy assessment. If so, an additional half an hour will be added to your appointment time.
Will it hurt?
No, the markers and EMG sensors use double sided tape to attach to the skin.