A convolution-based asymmetry metric for intersegmental synergistic coordination in sagittal 2D gait analysis

Tóm tắt

This study proposes a novel method to evaluate gait symmetry based on the velocity patterns of body parts during walking. Unlike conventional approaches relying on electromyographic (EMG) or acceleration differences between sides, this method focuses on intersegmental coordination—the dynamic relationship between contralateral body parts. The coordination is modeled as a Linear Time-Invariant (LTI) system, reflecting how muscle contractions produce joint acceleration and how joint elasticity and viscosity affect velocity. Gait symmetry is then quantified by measuring the dissimilarity between the left and right LTI systems. The proposed metric was applied to video data from five healthy subjects walking under both normal and intentionally asymmetrical conditions. Results demonstrate that this velocity-based approach effectively captures gait asymmetries, providing a new framework for motion analysis that emphasizes the dynamic properties of musculoskeletal coordination.