Why is 3D motion capture used in biomechanical assessment?

During an assessment, cameras or sensors track selected body landmarks while you walk, squat, reach, run, or perform another relevant task. The resulting record can help show how joints move relative to one another, where a movement changes, and whether the pattern differs between sides or across tasks.

The recording describes movement; it does not independently diagnose an injury or prove that one body part caused pain. A clinician interprets it alongside your history, examination, strength, flexibility, footwear, and goals.

Wear clothing that allows the examiner to see and place sensors on the areas being assessed. Bring the shoes or equipment used during the activity that causes concern, and explain what you feel, when it starts, and which tasks you avoid.

Follow the requested movements at a comfortable effort and report pain rather than pushing through it. Ask how the findings will change your exercise plan, technique, footwear, or rehabilitation targets.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden weakness, loss of coordination, inability to bear weight, severe swelling after an injury, or new numbness. A motion assessment is not a substitute for urgent evaluation when these symptoms appear.

Ask which movement is being measured, what pattern the clinician is looking for, and how the result relates to your symptoms. Ask how progress will be checked and whether the same task will be repeated after rehabilitation.