The role of ankle and knee muscle characteristics in spatiotemporal gait parameters at different walking speeds: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

BackgroundUnderstanding the intricate interplay between ankle and knee muscle characteristics and their impact on gait parameters is crucial for enhancing our comprehension of human locomotion, particularly in the context of varying walking speeds among healthy young adults. Research question: The study aimed to identify the relative importance of ankle and knee flexor and extensor muscle characteristics (e.g., strength estimated by peak torque [PT] and rate of torque development [RTD]) in the spatiotemporal gait parameters and variability in self-selected (SSWS) and fast walking speeds (FWS) in healthy young adults. MethodsOne hundred and thirty-nine adults (75 men – 54% and 64 women – 46%; 29.04 ± 9.55 years) were assessed about their muscle characteristics (PT and RTD by an isokinetic dynamometer) and spatiotemporal gait parameters at different walking speeds (SSWS and FWS by an instrumented walkway). ResultsData analysis indicated a weak relationship between the PT and RTD of the ankle and knee and spatiotemporal gait parameters and variability in both walking conditions (SSWS: R2 0.14–0.05; FWS: R2 0.40–0.05). The strength of the knee muscles was more relevant when walking at a self-selected speed, while the strength of the ankle muscles played a more prominent role when walking at a fast pace. SignificanceThe findings underscore the critical role of ankle muscles (plantar and dorsiflexors) at fast walking speeds. Therefore, targeted interventions for strength and optimization of these muscles are paramount.