Analysis of Gait in the Different Trimesters of Normal Pregnancy

Abstract

This study was conducted to measure deviations in the gait of normal pregnant women at their 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Selected kinematics and kinetics gait parameters were performed including pelvic motion in the transverse, coronal and sagittal planes as well as, GRF in the anterior-posterior and vertical directions. Twenty-three pregnant women at their first trimester were selected from Obstetrics Outpatient Department, at AI Kasr EI-Aynee University Hospital. Evaluation of all subjects was done by Qualysis Gait Analysis System at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Results showed statistically highly significant increase (P<0.001) in anterior pelvic tilting, downward pelvic drop, vertical acceleration of body's C.O.G and a significant increase (P<0,05) in the 2nd peak of vertical GRF as well as, forward propulsion of GRF. Also, results revealed a highly significant decrease (P<0.001) in upward pelvic rise as well as, a significant decrease (P<0.05) in backward pelvic rotation. While, braking force and the 1st peak of GRF showed non­ significant change (P>0.05). So, it can be concluded that changes in pelvic motion during pregnancy affect stability of the pelvis and increase stress on the lumbosacral area. The increased forward propulsion of GRF may lead to increase tendency to falling forward. Also, the increased vertical GRF may indicate that the pregnant women had more propulsion to move the increased weight and size of the pregnant uterus.