BACKGROUND: The use of statistical parameter mapping (SPM) to compare gait kinematics of children at different ages seems to be a more appropriate tool to describe the differences than simply describing the maxima and minima on the curves. RESEARCH QUESTION: Does lower limb kinematic waveforms differ during gait in normally developing preschool children? METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, SPM was used to compare kinematic waveforms of typically developing preschool children at ages 2, 3, and 6 years (n = 42). RESULTS: Differences in internal rotation foot angle between 2-year-olds and 3-, 6-year-olds in 22-55 % lower in 2-year-olds but 85-100 % greater in 2-year-olds. Greater internal rotation of the knee in 2-year-olds versus 6-year-olds in 13-25 % of the stance phase. Lower knee abduction in 2-year-olds versus 6-year-olds in the first 13 % of the stance phase. SIGNIFICANCE: Comparison of the waveforms of the angle may provide a clearer understanding of the differences in gait kinematics in children at different ages.

Department of Human Movement Studies University of Ostrava Ostrava Czech Republic

Department of Human Movement Studies University of Ostrava Ostrava Czech Republic; University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst USA

Department of Teaching of Physical Education Arts and Music University of Valencia Valencia Spain

Faculty of Physical Culture Palacky University Olomouc Olomouc Czech Republic

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