Gait Courses
The Rancho Observational Gait Analysis System is a well-known method for teaching a systematic approach to analyze gait that is utilized internationally as a foundation for movement analysis related to gait. The Rancho system incorporates a thorough and systematic approach of problem identification, prioritization, and treatment focus. Based on the work of Dr. Jacquelin Perry, MD, and the Rancho Physical Therapy Department, Rancho Observational Gait Analysis helps clinicians examine and improve an individual’s walking ability.
Rancho Gait Instructors provide continuing education workshops tailored to the need of the group or institution. These courses are designed to help participants sharpen their observational skills as they review the components of normal and pathological gait to enhance their clinical decision-making. The Rancho Observational Gait Analysis worksheet is utilized to analyze gait dysfunction and guide treatment intervention. Participants are provided with an overview of the sequencing of muscle activity, joint motion, and kinetics that occur during gait. The problem-solving approach is utilized to determine the functional implications of significant gait deviations as well as treatment approaches (including the use of orthoses and/or electrical stimulation) to maximize a client’s walking ability. Courses incorporate an introduction to the RanchoGait© app for smartphone and tablet use. The RanchoGait© app is a tool to learn and/or review components of gait analysis in an interactive user-guided format.
Courses can include an introduction to The Rancho R.O.A.D.M.A.P. (Recommendations for Orthotic Assessment, Decision-Making, And Prescription), an algorithm developed at Rancho that has been presented both nationally and internationally. The R.O.A.D.M.A.P. is utilized as a tool to guide clinical decision-making related to bracing based on research. An introduction to the Rancho R.O.A.D.M.A.P. app is also included. During a course, participants may have the opportunity to perform observational gait analysis using lab participants and identify major problems and potential treatment interventions. Subjects may also be incorporated which would allow participants the opportunity to work with persons with neurologic involvement and utilize the Rancho R.O.A.D.M.A.P. as a guide to make decisions related to most appropriate orthotic intervention for these individuals.
To find out more about our program or to schedule a workshop, please contact Kelley Kubota at (562) 385-6244 or via email at kkubota@dhs.lacounty.gov or Walt Weiss at (562) 385-7177 or via email at wweiss@dhs.lacounty.gov.