Akron Children’s has the only motion analysis lab in the region dedicated to evaluating the movement and function of the upper extremities, including arms, shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands. It is used to specific joint movements and can be helpful for assessing movement as a child grows, optimizing surgical plans, and evaluating treatment outcomes.
In the motion analysis lab, small sensors are attached to your child’s arms and torso to record movements in 3D. This technology picks up subtle changes in movement, including ways your child may be modifying how they move to compensate for limitations. Similar technology is used in computer-generated imagery (CGI) in movies and video games.
This assessment will help guide a treatment plan to maximize your child’s functioning. For surgical patients, there will be a post-surgery assessment measure improvement and determine if further treatment is needed.
The motion analysis lab is also involved in multiple research studies to learn more about arm movement throughout development in typical kids, as well as kids with conditions affecting how their arms move.
