Media Advisory: Mayo Clinic Opens Motion Analysis Lab Thursday

Monday, July 23, 2001

WHAT: Mayo Clinic Opens Motion Analysis Lab Thursday

Mayo Clinic will hold an open house at its new Motion Analysis Laboratory to demonstrate the latest computerized technology that is used to analyze motion, forces and muscle activity and determine what type of treatment will provide the greatest benefit for patients with movement disorders. The new technologies demonstrated will include:

*Gait study — A computerized analysis of the motion and forces exerted on various joints when people walk. It is commonly used for patients with cerebral palsy, polio, stroke, multiple sclerosis or balance problems. Results are used to select non-surgical or surgical treatment methods, and to evaluate the treatment effectiveness in producing a more normal gait. This is the same technology that is used to produce computer animation used in movies and video games.

*Electromyography — This equipment analyzes muscle activity while walking. This information is used to determine if a muscle is working at the right time and at the right level. The information is used to prescribe care for patients with cerebral palsy, myelomeningocele or stroke.

*Tremor measurement — A special test is used to measure tremor in patients with multiple sclerosis. This test is used to determine who will benefit from surgery and to evaluate the effectiveness of surgery.

*Foot pressure analysis — A sensor placed within the shoe measures the pressure on the sole of the foot for diabetic patients. Patients with diabetes often lose sensation in their feet. This test is used to fit orthopedic insoles to alleviate excess pressure that can cause ulcers. If left untreated, these ulcers can result in amputations.

*Lower extremity strength testing — Several machines are used to test the strength of the ankle, knee and hip. This information is used for post-polio patients to determine the progression of the disease. It is also being used to evaluate the effectiveness of some new drug therapies for patients with Lou Gehrig's disease or peripheral nerve problems.

*Upper extremity strength testing — This equipment is used to test the strength of the hand, wrist and elbow. It is used for patients with tendon ruptures or other work related injuries. It is used before and after treatment to determine effectiveness.

*Footwear materials tester — This is specialized equipment to measure the properties of shoes, particularly running shoes. It tells about the amount of shock absorption and energy return. The results of this test can be used to aid in selection of running shoes.

*Treadmill analysis — A special treadmill is equipped with force sensors to evaluate the forces when you run. It is used in combination with the footwear materials tester to tell people which running shoe is best for them.

WHEN: Thursday, July 26, 2001 3-7 p.m.

WHERE: Charlton North Building, near desk LP. 10 Third Avenue, N.W. (Entrance on northeast corner of the building)

NOTES: This event is open to news media and Mayo Clinic staff, but not the general public. The devices used by the lab offer interesting visuals. The lab staff also will be available for interviews and individual demonstrations of the equipment for reporters who want a "first-person" angle for their stories, and footage of patients undergoing testing is available.

### Contact: Lee Aase 507-266-2442 (days) 507-284-2511 (evenings) e-mail: newsbureau@mayo.edu

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