Children's Hospital Colorado Enhances Gait Lab with New Technology
Updated technology allows for better data resolution; helps with quicker diagnosis, results and patient recovery
Children's Hospital Colorado, renowned for its innovative healthcare solutions, has recently upgraded its Center for Gait and Movement Analysis. This facility stands out as the only accredited clinical gait analysis lab in the area, now enhanced by the latest camera technology from Vicon, known as Valkyrie.
Improving Patient Diagnosis and Recovery
Lucas Moore, the program developer for the Gait Lab, expressed enthusiasm about the new capabilities. "Our goal is to help our patients be as mobile and active as possible. We are thrilled that we can now offer new technology. With updated camera capabilities, our ability to see how a patient's body moves during clinical gait analysis has improved tremendously," he stated. This analysis allows experts to observe how children walk, whether they require assistance from devices like walkers or crutches, or when using special braces.
Enhanced Motion Capture Techniques
The Gait Lab has been utilizing Vicon technologies for over 25 years. The new Valkyrie cameras enhance the lab's analytical capabilities, allowing providers to employ advanced motion capture techniques, including 3D motion kinetics and kinematics. This upgrade significantly enhances real-time diagnosis capabilities and forms the basis for optimal treatment planning.
Accreditation and Patient Care
As one of the only 18 accredited gait labs across the country, the Gait Lab at Children's Hospital Colorado serves approximately 550 patients annually. Families travel from various states, seeking specialized care for their children. The conditions treated often include cerebral palsy, spina bifida, joint issues, balance disorders, and sports-related injuries.
State-of-the-Art Analysis Methods
The expert team employs cutting-edge techniques like advanced video recording and 3D motion capture to assess body movements and muscle activity as patients walk. An electronic avatar representing each patient’s movements allows professionals from various specialties, including physical therapy, orthopedic surgery, and engineering, to collaborate on treatment solutions.
A Legacy of Innovation in Pediatric Care
Vicon, a pioneer in motion capture technology founded in 1984, continues to innovate within the healthcare sector. Since 2007, Children's Hospital Colorado has utilized five different Vicon camera systems. The latest upgrade to the Valkyrie system provides a comprehensive suite of networked cameras, which enhances both real-time data collection and offline analytics.
George Miller, senior account manager at Vicon, highlighted the importance of this upgrade: "The Gait Lab's latest enhancement ensures that the Center for Gait and Movement Analysis will maintain its leadership position in motion capture technology."
About Children's Hospital Colorado
Children's Hospital Colorado stands as a premier nonprofit pediatric healthcare institution dedicated to enriching the lives of children through comprehensive care, education, research, and advocacy. With a history dating back to 1908, the hospital has garnered recognition as one of the nation’s top children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. Committed to pioneering groundbreaking treatments, Children's Colorado is shaping the future of pediatric healthcare. It offers a full spectrum of family-centered care across various urgent, emergency, and specialty care locations throughout the region, including an academic medical center and multiple outreach clinics.
About Vicon
Established in 1984, Vicon is a leading provider of customized motion capture systems across several industries, including life sciences and entertainment. Their innovative technologies enable a comprehensive analysis of motion, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Vicon collaborates with numerous organizations to facilitate advancements within healthcare and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new technology used in the Gait Lab?
The Gait Lab now utilizes the latest camera technology from Vicon, specifically the Valkyrie system, enhancing its motion capture capabilities.
How does the Gait Lab support patient recovery?
The Gait Lab employs advanced analysis techniques to diagnose conditions quickly and tailor effective treatment plans to support patient mobility and recovery.
Who benefits from the Gait Lab services?
The Gait Lab caters to children with various neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions, ensuring access to specialized care.
Why is the Gait Lab's accreditation significant?
The Gait Lab’s accreditation highlights its commitment to maintaining high standards in pediatric gait and movement analysis and sets it apart as a leading facility in the country.
How long has Children's Hospital Colorado been operational?
Children's Hospital Colorado has been providing healthcare for children since its founding in 1908, making it one of the oldest pediatric care institutions in the nation.
