Are knee kinematic anomalies in swing due to rectus femoris spasticity different from those due to femoral anteversion in children with cerebral palsy? A quantitative evaluation using 3D gait analysis.

Abstract

Quantitative comparison of gait strategy between stiff knee gait caused by rectus femoris spasticity versus that caused by femoral anteversion was the objective of this study. Twenty-three diplegic were divided into group 1 (excessive femoral anteversion without rectus femoris spasticity) and group 2 (normal femoral anteversion and rectus femoris spasticity). Both groups showed low knee flexion during swing (KMSw), but although group 1 exhibited normal KMSw timing and high hip intrarotation, group 2 presented delayed KMSw timing, with normal hip rotation. Reduced KMSw may be because of two different conditions: excessive femoral anteversion, leading only to KMSw reduction, and rectus femoris spasticity, inducing coexistence of reduced KMSw and its delayed timing.