A cross-sectional study about the relationship between morphology and kinematic parameters in children between 15 and 36 months

Morphology and kinematic parameters were recorded for 31 children between 15 and 36 months to investigate the relation between morphology and the walking pattern. A full 3D gait analysis using a VICON motion system was performed to gather kinematic data. Next, the differences in kinematic parameters between four morphological classes were assigned with a multiple analysis of variance, with a correction for walking experience. Also stepwise linear regressions were performed, to examine the relation between detailed morphological measurements and kinematic parameters. The regression models showed relationships between kinematic parameters of the ankle, hip, thorax and morphology. All results indicated that the upper body played an important role in the coordination of the walking pattern, especially in the frontal plane. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.