Abstract: ObjectiveTo study normal gait characteristics of healthy adults in different age groups.Methods90 healthy adults were divided into three groups according to their ages. It was 20～39 year group, 40～59 year group and 60～70 year group. They received a gait analysis with the gait analysis system based on digital video and image processing which could provide temporal-spatial parameters and kinematic parameters. The gait data of the three groups were compared. Relationships between gait speed and other gait parameters were investigated.ResultsThere were statistically significant differences in some parameters among three groups. Gait speed was significantly correlated with stride time, stride length, stance time (%), cadence, maximum flexion of hip and knee in swing phase.ConclusionThe normal gait patterns of healthy adult established with the gait analysis system based on digital video and image processing can be used as the base line to compare with abnormal gait.

Key words: gait, gait speed, gait analysis system