Comprehensive Evaluation for Patients with Movement Disorders

What we do

The Movement Lab provides an opportunity for an in-depth motion analysis for children and young adults who have movement concerns due to neurologic, orthopedic, or muscular conditions.

A variety of tools will be used to collect specific data about how the patient’s joints and muscles move and function. The data will be analyzed and interpreted to help healthcare providers design the most effective treatment approach to meet the patient’s specific needs.

What to bring

The assessment will take about 4 hours. The patient should eat a good meal before the visit. Please bring the following items:

• Orthotics and/or assistive device (walker, crutches, etc.)
• Tight fitting shorts, such as spandex or bike shorts (There are some available for loan if needed)
• Sports bra or tight tank top for girls
• Snacks and a beverage
• A comforting object or toy if needed
• Quiet entertainment (tablet, smartphone, book, etc.) for when the patient is completing stationary measurements

What to expect at the visit

Patient participating in metabolic consumption and cost analysis while performing a 6 minute walk.

A physical therapist and biomechanist will complete the following assessments:

• Review of medical history and specific concerns
• Physical examination, including:
  • Range of motion
  • Strength
  • Muscle tone
  • Posture and alignment
• Photographs and video gait assessment
• Motion capture analysis
• Force plate assessment
• Foot pressure mapping
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Metabolic consumption

What to expect after the visit

• Collected data will be processed and analyzed.
• The report and recommendations will be shared with referring provider and specialists involved in the patient’s care.
• Findings will be discussed with the patient/caregiver at a follow-up with the referring provider.

A copy of the report can be requested via:

• MultiCare MyChart
• Health Information Management Department (855-673-2673)
• Online medical records