Anthropometric parameters in children: a comparison of values obtained from dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and cadaver-based estimates

Anthropometric data used in gait analysis for children are often estimated from older adult cadavers. The extent to which these estimates accurately represent children or affect the calculation of net joint moments during gait analysis is unknown. The purpose of this study was: (1) to compare dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-derived anthropometric parameters to cadaver-based estimates in children, and (2) to determine if DXA-derived anthropometric data alter the results of gait analyses in children. Using DXA, the mass, center of mass location, and moment of inertia of the foot, shank, and thigh were obtained from 7 to 13 year-old children (n=50) and compared to cadaver-based estimates. Additionally, lower extremity net joint moments were calculated (inverse dynamics equations) for three children during gait using (a) DXA-derived, and (b) cadaver-based estimates of anthropometric parameters. Statistically significant differences were identified for most DXA-derived and cadaver-based anthropometric values. However, based on gait analysis of three children, it is likely that the differences between DXA-derived and cadaver-based anthropometric estimates would have a negligible effect on the calculation of net joint moments during gait in 7–13 year-old children.