Assessing the asymmetry of free gait in healthy young subjects

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to derive reference values for a four-level scale intended to evaluate variation in free gait asymmetry measurements in healthy subjects. Methods: This evaluation is based on kinetic values for the left and right lower limbs during gait, registered with advanced measurement systems and assessed using the symmetry index (SI) developed by Robinson. Results: For the majority of parameters, the SI does not follow normal distribution. As such, quartile values were used to create intervals for a four-step scale of assessing symmetry of free gait in healthy subjects for each studied gait parameter. The SI rating intervals were from 0% (very good symmetry) to 21.2% (very poor symmetry) for kinetic parameters. The poorest symmetry was observed for horizontal force F3. Conclusions: The four-step scale of assessing symmetry in free gait in healthy subjects can be used in diagnosing gait disorders, devising surgical treatment strategies, and monitoring the rehabilitation process. Reference values for intervals of symmetry indicators in healthy subjects can be used as criteria for comparing individuals with/without disabilities.