A COMPARISON OF GAIT SYMMETRY AND HIP MOVEMENTS IN THE ASSESSMENT OF PATIENTS WITH MONARTICULAR HIP ARTHRITIS

Three parameters of hip function have been studied and compared in pat ients with osteoarthritis of the hip. Clinical indices such as the Har ris hip score are cheap and easy to perform but can be misleading. Gro und reaction force asymmetries are useful in the assessment of disease severity and treatment outcome and are easy to perform and interpret. The loading rate asymmetries are the most sensitive indicators of thi s gait dysfunction. Measurement of joint movements using flexible elec trogoniometers provides useful functional data but is of limited value if flat walking alone is measured. Whilst none of these tests is enti rely reliable each provides valuable information to help with patient assessment.