Using the lines for a reference, measure the transverse distance between foot centers. Stride length is calculated by measuring the distance from the base of one heelmark to the base of the next heelmark created by the same foot. Position one arm of the goniometer parallel to the line of progression. Take the other arm of the goniometer and bisect the second ray of the foot. To determine cadence, instruct your client to ambulate for one minute and count the number of steps taken during this time.
Cadence is expressed in steps per minute.
If you have limited space, or if your client cannot ambulate for one minute, use fractions of a minute and adjust your measurements. Be sure to document accordingly. Coordinate your stopwatch start and stop activation with heel contact on a WriteStep pad. Divide the time measured into the distance between these heel contact points. Be sure your client is ambulating when you begin and end your timing.