Test-Retest Reliability of the MotionMetrix Software for the Analysis of Walking and Running Gait Parameters

Abstract

The use of markerless motion capture systems is becoming more popular for walking and running analysis given their user-friendliness and their time efficiency but in some cases their validity is uncertain. Here, the test-retest reliability of the MotionMetrix software combined with the use of Kinect sensors is tested with 24 healthy volunteers for walking (at 5 km center dot h(-1)) and running (at 10 and 15 km center dot h(-1)) gait analysis in two different trials. All the parameters given by the MotionMetrix software for both walking and running gait analysis are tested in terms of reliability. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were found for walking gait parameters between both trials except for the phases of loading response and double support, and the spatiotemporal parameters of step length and step frequency. Additionally, all the parameters exhibit acceptable reliability (CV < 10%) but step width (CV > 10%). When analyzing running gait, although the parameters here tested exhibited different reliability values at 10 km center dot h(-1), the system provided reliable measurements for most of the kinematic and kinetic parameters (CV < 10%) when running at 15 km center dot h(-1). Overall, the results obtained show that, although some variables must be interpreted with caution, the Kinect + MotionMetrix system may be useful for walking and running gait analysis. Nevertheless, the validity still needs to be determined against a gold standard system to fully trust this technology and software combination.