Dual-task changes in gait and brain activity measured in a healthy young adult population

Abstract

BackgroundDual Task (DT) walking in everyday life is the norm rather than the exception. Complex cognitive-motor strategies are employed during DT and it is necessary to coordinate and regulate neural resources to ensure adequate performance. However, the underlying neurophysiology involved is not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the neurophysiology and gait kinematics during DT gait. Research questionOur main research question was whether gait kinematics changed during DT walking for healthy young adults and whether this is reflected in brain activity. MethodsTen healthy young adults walked on a treadmill, performed a Flanker test while standing and performed the Flanker test while walking on a treadmill. Electroencephalography (EEG), spatial temporal, and kinematic data was recorded and analyzed. ResultsAverage alpha and beta activities were modulated during DT walking compared to single task (ST) walking while ERPs during the Flanker test showed larger P300 amplitudes and longer latencies for DT compared to standing. Cadence reduced and cadence variability increased during DT compared to ST whilst kinematic results showed that hip and knee flexions decreased, and the center of mass moved slightly back in the sagittal plane. SignificanceIt was found that healthy young adults employed a cognitive-motor strategy that included directing more neural resources to the cognitive task while adopting a more upright posture during DT walking.