At SSOP we are one of only a few clinics in Sydney who are using the most up to date technology to assist in the rehabilitation from injury.
We have been using real-time ultrasound for several years now, but our most recent bit of kit is DorsaVi (most physiotherapists are geeks – me included – and we love a new bit of physio kit!) . I will not bore everyone with the technical details too much in this blog, but essentially we are now able to use movement sensor technology to assist with assessment and rehabilitation of injuries.
One particular function of DorsaVi is to assess running technique. It helps provide important information on various running biomechanical elements that are difficult and time consuming to record with the naked eye or with video analysis. I said i would not bore too much with the technical jargon, but here it is anyway! DorsaVi allows us to measure the following:
Ground Reaction Force,
Asymmetry index,
Cadence,
Run time & step count,
Initial peak acceleration,
Load per minute.
One of the main advantages with DorsaVi is it allows to collect real-time data whilst running outdoors and not be reliant upon a treadmill (which has been shown to alter natural running technique). This level of analysis in a natural environment allows us to assess load patterns over short & long distances, at varying speeds and with fatigue. It therefore allows us to identify when fatigue may potentially be causing changes in technique and poor form. This is a game changer when offering advice on how far to run and at what intensity.
The device consists of wireless movement sensors that are fitted on the skin of the lower legs. These sensors give immediate feedback on running movement. This information can help guide improvements to running technique and if required assist with the athlete’s recovery.
If you would like more information on this fancy new bit of kit, then feel free to get in contact with the clinic or have a chat with one of our physiotherapist next time your in the clinic.
