3D gait analysis in rheumatoid arthritis postmenopausal women with and without falls history

The aim of this study was to compare gait biomechanical parameters related with falls, in rheumatoid arthritis postmenopausal women (N=22) with and without falls history. A 3D model was used. The Vicon^® Motion Capture System recorded kinematics data (9 MX1.3 cameras, 200Hz) synchronized with a force plate (AMTI BP400600-200, 1000Hz). The Vicon^® Nexus software (1.7.1) based on an integrated model of 41 reflective markers and subject anthropometric data, developed the 3D spatial localization of joints centers and the model mechanical segments. Subjects performed 14 valid trials (7 left and 7 right foot-steps on force plate). The decrease of centre of mass anteroposterior velocity and heel anteroposterior velocity in RA postmenopausal women with falls history may have been the result of an adaptation to ensure a safer gait. The variability found in heel anteroposterior velocity of the RA postmenopausal women with falls history may indicate a lower proprioceptive control.