Heel Contact Phase Research Articles

Dynamic control simulation of a new joint model with energy recovery during walking, using magnetorheological fluids, for lower limb prosthesis

AbstractResearchers can now utilize new materials to create innovative models for lower limb prostheses and explore novel ways to use them for efficient dynamic control. To achieve user-friendliness, one area of research focuses on recovering and reusing kinetic walking energy for dynamic control. This paper proposes a new design for a magnetorheological (MR) valve, along with a rotary actuator which offers a dynamic control for a lower limb prosthesis. The design will allow the storage of the energy during heel and mid-foot contact phases and to utilize it during toe support to lift the foot off the ground and establish a balance for the lower limb prosthesis. The energy is transferred through a magnetorheological hydraulic circuit and stored using a pneumatic system. The speed of energy transfer is regulated by magnetorheological valves. A series of MR valve designs were proposed and evaluated experimentally, which allowed the identification of the most suitable variant in the targeted application context. The design of the lower limb prosthesis was simulated using SolidWorks, and its dynamic behavior was analyzed in ANSYS.

Comparing the Effects of Eight Weeks of Running on a Treadmill and on the Ground on Electrical Muscle Activity of Young Men With Genu Varum

Background and Aims Weakness in the knee muscles and other components of the knee joint can cause various complications, including the genu varum. This study aims to investigate the effects of eight weeks of running on a treadmill and on the ground on muscle activities in individuals with genu varum. Methods This is a quasi-experimental and laboratory study. Forty-five young men with genu varus were randomly divided into three groups: control, ground-based training, and treadmill training. Running exercises were performed for eight weeks in the training groups. The electrical activity of selected muscles was recorded by an electromyography system. For statistical analysis, repeated measures analysis of variance was used. The significant level was set at 0.05. Results In the treadmill training group, the electrical activity of the biceps femoris and gastrocnemius medialis muscles increased significantly after training during the heel contact phase. In the ground-based training group, the electrical activity of the biceps femoris and vastus latralis muscles significantly increased after training. In the swing phase of running, the electrical activity of the tibialis anterior, gluteus medius, and semitendinosus muscles was also significantly increased after training in the ground-based training group Conclusion It seems that running on a treadmill may have been effective in improving muscle activity and preventing the progression of the knee genu varum.

Comparison of mechanical energy transfer during right-forward lunge between female amateur and professional badminton players

BackgroundRegarding their skill levels, badminton players present different movement patterns during front and right lunging. The main objective of this study was to compare the mechanical energy transfers attributable to right-forward lunges between amateur and professional badminton players to study variations in mechanical efficiency at various skill levels.MethodIn this cross-sectional study, twenty female badminton players were recruited (Professional group n = 10 and Amateur group n = 10). The kinematics and kinetics of the lower extremities were recorded while performing right-forward lunges using Vicon motion capture and Kistler force plates. Mechanical energy expenditures (MEE) were extracted in eccentric transfer, concentric transfer, and no-transfer phases for the hip, knee, and ankle joints. At each joint, mechanical energy compensations (MEC) were also determined. Independent samples t-tests were used to analyze data at a significance level of α = 0.05.ResultRegards to mechanical energy expenditures at the initial heel contact phase, the professional players demonstrated statistically significant more ankle no-transfer (p < 0.003), less knee concentric transfer (p < 0.026), more knee eccentric transfer (p < 0.001), and less hip no-transfer (p < 0.001). At the same time, the amateur athletes showed significantly more ankle eccentric transfer (p < 0.042) at maximal knee flexion angle time point. Analyzing mechanical energy compensation coefficients showed that the professional athletes had significantly less ankle concentric transfer (p < 0.001), more knee concentric transfer (p < 0.001), more knee eccentric transfer (p < 0.001), and more hip eccentric transfer (p < 0.001) at initial contact phase. While they found to have significantly more ankle eccentric transfer (p < 0.007), less knee concentric transfer (p < 0.001), less knee eccentric transfer (p < 0.001), more hip concentric transfer (p < 0.001), and more hip eccentric transfer (p < 0.001) at maximal knee flexion angle.Conclusionit is shown that the mechanical energy efficiency of the right-forward lunge is skill-related. It seems that altered lunge landing biomechanics may increase the risk of ankle and knee injuries and muscular damages in amateur athletes. It is recommended for amateur players to follow a injury prevention training program that promotes proper lunging technique.

Effect of Exercises in Water and Thera-Band on the Electrical Activity of Lower Limb Muscles in People with Pronated Foot During Walking: A Clinical Trial Study

Introduction: The ankle joint is one of the most vulnerable joints in the body due to weight bearing. Pronated foot is one of the most common complications of the lower limbs. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of exercise protocol in water and theraband on the electrical activity of lower limb muscles in people with pronate foot during walking.&#x0D; Methods: The present research was a clinical trial study that was conducted in a semi-experimental and laboratory. The participants of the present study included 45 students of University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran, who had pronated foot. They were selected purposefully and divided into three equal groups. The age range of the subjects was 18-25 years. To measure the electrical activity muscles of lower limbs, it was recorded using an electromyography device. Electromyography data were analyzed using biometric datalite program. In addition, analysis of variance with repeated measurements and bonferroni post hoc test was used, and the significance level was P≤0.05.&#x0D; Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference between time*group activity of the gastrocnemius (P=0.001) and semitendinosus (P=0.046) in the three groups of training in water, theraband and control during the heel contact phase. Therefore, using the appropriate post hoc test (LSD), it was shown that the activity of the gastrocnemius muscle in the post-test compared to the pre-test in the group of training in water (P&lt;0.001; d=6.08) and theraband (P&lt;0.001; d=3.66) had a significant increase of 24.03 and 16.46%, respectively. The activity of the semitendinosus muscle in the post-test compared to the pre-test in the water training group (P=0.041; d=4.98) and theraband (P=0.048; d=4.76) had a significant increase of 21.06 and 19.01%, respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: According to the present study, it seems that doing exercises in water and thera-band can play an effective role in improving the range of electrical activity of the muscles on lower limbs of people with pronated foot during walking. In addition, according to the effect size, it was found that training in water had a better effect on the activity of the gastrocnemius and semi tendinosus compared to thera-band.

Effect of Sport Shoe Weight on Gait Kinetics in Athletes With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction During Walking

Background and Aims Different shoe weights affect the gait mechanics. Some dynamic changes or adjustments induced by anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction can be assessed through the analysis of the ground reaction forces (GRFs). This study aims to determine the effect of sports shoe weight on gait kinetics in athletes with ACL reconstruction. Methods Twenty healthy men and 20 athletes with ACL reconstruction volunteered to participate in this study. Each participant performed three walking trials with shoes having light (weight: 150±18 g), moderate (300±18 g), and heavy (450±18 g) weights in a randomized order. The GRFs were analyzed during shod walking. Results The GRF component at vertical direction during the heel contact phase changed significantly during the use of shoes with different weights (P=0.001). In addition, the GRF at vertical direction during the push-off phase and GRF at mediolateral direction during the push-off phase increased significantly (P=0.023 and 0.014, respectively). Conclusion The biomechanics of lower limbs and the GRFs are significantly different when using light and heavy shoes during the heal contact and push-off phases of walking.

The Reduced Adaptability of H-Reflex Parameters to Postural Change With Deficiency of Foot Plantar Sensitivity.

Purpose: The project was to examine the influence of peripheral neuropathy (PN) severity on the relationship between Hoffmann-reflex (H-reflex) and postures. Methods: A total of 34 participants were recruited. H-reflex (H/M ratio and H-index) during prone, standing, and the heel-contact phase of walking was tested, along with foot sole sensitivity. Results: The participants were divided into three groups based on the severity of the foot sole sensitivity deficit: control, less (LA), and more (MA) affected with both feet 5.07 monofilament test scores ranging 10, 0–5, and 6–9, respectively. A significant group by the posture interaction was observed in the H/M ratio (F3.0, 41.9 = 2.904, p = 0.046, η p 2 = 0.172). In the control group, the H/M ratio of prone (22 ± 7%) was greater than that of the standing (13 ± 3%, p = 0.013) and heel-contact phase (10 ± 2%, p = 0.004). In the MA group, the H/M ratio of standing (13 ± 3%) was greater than that of the heel-contact phase (8 ± 2%, p = 0.011). The H-index was significantly different among groups (F2,28 = 5.711, p = 0.008, and η p 2 = 0.290). Post hoc analysis showed that the H-index of the control group (80.6 ± 11.3) was greater than that of the LA (69.8 ± 12.1, p = 0.021) and MA groups (62.0 ± 10.6, p = 0.003). Conclusion: In a non-PN population, the plantar sensory input plays an important role in maintaining standing postural control, while as for the PN population with foot sole sensitivity deficiency, type Ⅰ afferent fibers reflex loop (H-reflex) contributes more to the standing postural control. The H-index parameter is an excellent method to recognize the people with and without PN but not to distinguish the severity of PN with impaired foot sole sensitivity.

Hoffmann Reflex Measured From Lateral Gastrocnemius Is More Reliable Than From Soleus Among Elderly With Peripheral Neuropathy.

IntroductionPeripheral neuropathy (PN) affects up to 20% of the population over the age of 60. Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex) may assess PN adaptation by measuring the function of the peripheral neural system and central nervous system (CNS) modulation. This project aimed to find a reliable muscle among triceps surae muscles during standing and walking among the PN population.Materials and MethodsSixteen older adults (> 65 years of age) diagnosed with PN were recruited in this study. The H-reflex test was conducted on the muscle belly of the soleus (SOL), the medial (MG), and lateral gastrocnemius (LG) during standing and walking (heel contact, midstance, and toe-off phases). All measurements were collected on two occasions, separated by at least 7 days. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and their confidence intervals (CIs) were used to examine the consistency of the H-reflex outcome variables in the repeated tests for all three tested muscles.ResultsThe ICCs of H-index during standing and the three walking phases were poor to moderate in SOL (0.486∼0.737) and MG (0.221∼0.768), and moderate to high in LG (0.713∼0.871). The ICCs of H/M ratio were poor to moderate in SOL (0.263∼0.702) and MG (0.220∼0.733), and high in LG (0.856∼0.958).ConclusionThe H-reflex of LG was more reliable than SOL and MG during standing and walking among older adults with peripheral neuropathy. It is crucial for future studies in this population to study H-reflex of LG, not SOL and MG, for more reliable results.

Dynamic Lower-Limb Alignment Focusing on Gait Stability

Introduction: Prosthetic limbs must be developed with proper alignment to facilitate safe and efficient gait patterns. This study aimed to identify factors impacting clinically proper gait patterns by objectively evaluating them in persons with lower-limb amputations who use prosthetic limbs. Materials and Methods: This non-experimental descriptive study assessed 58 persons with amputation who used prosthetic limbs. The mechanical axis angle (MAA) of the lower limb during the heel contact, midstance, and toe-off phases and the angle between the tube and floor during the midstance phase were measured using coronal plane gait images. We also investigated whether the MAA and tube angle during the midstance phase have a multimodal distribution. In case of multimodal distributions, we tested for significant between-group differences in patient characteristics. Results: The MAA and tube angle in the coronal plane during the midstance phase had a bimodal distribution (mean 0°). There was a significant difference in the duration of prosthetic limb use between the MAA Conclusions: In this study, prosthetic alignment during the midstance phase had a bimodal distribution. In both groups, deviations in the lower limb MAA were aligned to be approximately 3°.

Comparison of Foot Pressure Variables in Blind and Healthy Participants with Open and Closed Eyes While Walking

Introduction: Measurement of foot pressure variables can be used to assess the loads to which the human body is subjected in normal activities, like walking, or in more demanding situations such as sports. The purpose of this study was to compare the foot pressure variables in blind and healthy individuals with open and closed eyes during walking. Methods: The present study was a quasi-experimental and laboratory study with pretest-posttest design. The statistic samples included 13 blind men with the mean age of 29.05±3.28 years and 17 healthy men with the mean age of 24.22±1.31 years participated in this study and were selected by available sampling method.. A foot scan (RS Scan International, Belgium) set was used for measuring planter pressure during walking. Variables data were recorded at a sampling frequency of 300 Hz. For data analysis, paired t-test was run to compare the means within the group; also, independent t-test run to compare the means between the groups using SPSS ver. 16 statistical software. Results: The results showed that the peak reaction time of the ground reaction force during the heel contact phase was 45.89% higher than blind people compared to the normal participants (p&lt;0.023). The time to peak of vertical force during mid stance in the blind people was 38.97% more than in normal people with closed eyes (p&lt;0.013). The peak vertical loading rate in the blind people was 41.65% lower than normal participants with closed eyes while walking (p&lt;0/003). Conclusion: Congenital blind people have less stance time in comparison with the healthy people with closed eyes. Decreased walking stance time seems to be related to improved their other senses that requires further research.

Comparisons of Spatiotemporal and Ground Reaction Force Components of Gait Between Individuals with Congenital Vision Loss and Sighted Individuals

Introduction: The understanding of abnormalities in biomechanical parameters of gait in individuals with vision loss (i.e., blindness or low vision) has clinical importance. The aims of this study were to compare the spatiotemporal and ground reaction force variables of sighted individuals with those with vision loss. Methods: Ten sighted males and 10 young males with congenital vision loss were recruited. A Vicon motion analysis system with four cameras and two Kistler force plates was used to quantify spatiotemporal and ground reaction force components of both groups during walking without shoes. Sighted individuals walked in eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. Results: Results showed that the stride and step length, walking speed, the vertical and posterior–anterior reaction forces in heel contact and push-off phase, and the impulse of the control group during walking with the open- and closed-eyes conditions were significantly smaller than those in persons with vision loss ( p &lt; .05). Discussion: Vision loss is associated with decreased step and stride length, slower walking, and smaller propulsive reaction force. These kinematic and kinetics alterations suggest an adaptation to a new neuromuscular response for dynamic postural control as a result of lack of vision. These alterations in the long term may result in rigidity and muscle weakness. Implications for practitioners: A rehabilitation program to enhance mobility and strength is suggested for individuals with vision loss.

Fall Risk in Older Adults Transitioning between Different Flooring Materials

As there is lack of understanding about the effect of transitioning between different flooring materials on the gait of older adults, this study investigated the effect of transitioning between a carpeted floor and a vinyl floor on the gait characteristics of older adults. Fourteen older (65 years old and over) and 14 younger (18 to 35 years old) adults walked on different transitional floors by measuring various gait parameters. While the older participants had greater toe clearance than their younger counterparts, the older participants had smaller toe clearance on a carpeted floor than on a vinyl floor, which would increase the probability of a trip-induced fall. Further, the study found the slower transitional acceleration of the whole body COM and the increased friction demand, especially during the toe-off phase, rather than heel contact phase, which will lead to a slip-induced fall on a vinyl floor shortly after transitioning from a carpeted floor to a vinyl floor. Although the increased likelihood of a slip or trip accident was found throughout the changes in gait parameters, the older participants did not perceive of slipping and tripping much. Therefore, older adults are recommended to be made aware of the danger of slipping and tripping while transitioning between different flooring materials.

Fall Risk in Older Adults Transitioning between Different Flooring Materials

As there is lack of understanding about the effect of transitioning between different flooring materials on the gait of older adults, this study investigated the effect of transitioning between a carpeted floor and a vinyl floor on the gait characteristics of older adults. Fourteen older (65 years old and over) and 14 younger (18 to 35 years old) adults walked on different transitional floors by measuring various gait parameters. While the older participants had greater toe clearance than their younger counterparts, the older participants had smaller toe clearance on a carpeted floor than on a vinyl floor, which would increase the probability of a trip-induced fall. Further, the study found the slower transitional acceleration of the whole body COM and the increased friction demand, especially during the toe-off phase, rather than heel contact phase, which will lead to a slip-induced fall on a vinyl floor shortly after transitioning from a carpeted floor to a vinyl floor. Although the increased likelihood of a slip or trip accident was found throughout the changes in gait parameters, the older participants did not perceive of slipping and tripping much. Therefore, older adults are recommended to be made aware of the danger of slipping and tripping while transitioning between different flooring materials.

The Effect of TheraBand® Corrective Exercise on Co-contraction of Ankle Joint in Men with Genu Valgum during Walking: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study

Introduction: Malalignments in the lower limb can affect the biomechanics of human movements such as walking. The ankle joint has a major role in shock absorption, however abnormalities such as genu valgum can disrupt its function. The objective in this study is to investigate the effect of corrective exercise with ThraBand® on the ankle joint co-contraction in patients with genu valgum during walking. Materials and Methods: 24 male students (20-30 years old) were randomly divided into the two control and experimental groups. Corrective exercises were performed for 8 weeks using TheraBand ® for the experimental group. The electrical activity of the selected muscles was recorded by the electromyography (ECG) device (Biometrics Ltd, UK). The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the significant level of 0.050. Results: Findings in the experimental group showed that the general co-contraction of ankle joint increased significantly in the heel contact phase during the post-test phase compared to the pre-test phase (P = 0.044; d = 0.12). Other components did not show any significant differences (P > 0.050). Conclusion: Generally, increased co-contraction of ankle during the heel contact phase indicated greater ankle joint support after the corrective exercise.

Analysis of Aerobic Power and Swing Characteristics in Young Male Race Walkers

Economical walking is defined by the steady state of oxygen consumption with top speed and technique in competition is one of the most important factors to achieve higher performance for Pedestrians. The technique of race walking which is defined by World Athletics race walking competitions rules 230.54.2 not a naturally obtained human skill as normal walking and running of childhood. The purpose of the study was to analyze the association and relation of race velocity with aerobic capacity and kinematic properties. Top 10 race walkers of 10000m race walk discipline (Men- U 20), from 33^rd National Junior Athletic Championships, Nov, 2017 held at Acharya Nagarjuna University, Vijaywada, A. P. India were digitized as the subject. For kinematic analysis, athletes were recorded as they passed through halfway 4.55 KM at back straight on the 400 m track by using two standard digital HD camcorders (Nikon B700, 60Hz) mounted on rigid tripods 90° angle 4 m away from the track inside & outside where reference volume was 5 m long and 1.5 m high. Whereas to measure Vo₂ Max athletes’ performance were taken as they passed through 1.5 miles or 2414.02 m on the track. The video data were analyzed by using motion analysis software (KINOVEA). Descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation coefficient (<i>p</i><0.05) were employed for statistical calculation. The tabulation of data was done by using the IBM SPSS software. The result of the study showed that the correlation between race performance and VO₂ max was quite high, r (8df) = 0.726. A Strong relationship was found between step length and RW performance, i.e. r (8df) = 0.689. Whereas variables like, flight time, linearity, maximum knee and foot height of swing leg were positively correlated with the walking performance. A high degree positive association was located in the torso and pelvic displacement r = 0.768 & 0.804 respectively. In toe off phase “r” value of knee angle with performance was 0.742 that showed a high degree coefficient of correlation. Whereas at heel contact and mid stance phase a low degree negative correlation found (r = -0.489& -0.406). Most of the calculated “r” values were significant as the critical value of 8 df at 0.05 level is 0.631. Due to the direct association of race walking velocity (Mean = 3.427 m/s & SD = 0.235) with VO₂ max, step length, knee angle, torso & pelvic displacement may be this type of result found indifferent phases. Race walking performance was positively associated with the race walking economy (kinematic and physiologic variables), which implies that the fastest race walkers were more economical than the lesser performers. In relation to RW technique and forward propulsion, displacement of torso and pelvic region observed a significant role.

Kinematic Analysis of Support Phase Characteristics in Women Race Walking

Race walking requires a great deal of effort to compete successfully which includes a unique combination of technique, extreme physical exertion and mental focus. Unlike running, race walking is composed by support phase (heel strike, mid-stance and toe off) and swing phase. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between different kinematic characteristics of support phase during race walking and walking velocity. The rules of race walking demand that no visible flight time should occur and the stance leg must be straightened from initial contact to midstance. Previous research has not examined whether these rules also have an effect on walking performance and what consequences might arise. Top ten (U-20 Girls) finishers of 10000m race walk discipline, 33^rd National Junior Athletic Championships, 2017 held at Acharya Nagarjuna University, Vijaywada, A. P. India were recorded by using two Nikon digital 4K camcorders (60 Hz) mounted on rigid tripods were placed alongside of the course at approximately 90° to the plane of motion. The junior athletes were analyzed by using motion analysis software (KINOVEA 0.8.27). Descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation coefficient (p<0.05) were employed for statistical calculation. The tabulation of data was done by using the IBM SPSS 25 software. The result of the study revealed that, women athlete’s performance were affected by the long contact phase duration (Mean=0.33 s (±) 0.05). This factor relativity creates hindrances in propulsive phase. A negative association (r= -0.49) found between contact time and average speed. As expected, due to the technical rules of this discipline knee angel at heel contact is significantly correlated with velocity as the calculated r value was 0.709* (Critical value at 8 df r = 0.632). Whereas, at mid stance phase a negative correlation found between knee angle and walking performance that sketch a hyper extended knee. However, a positive linear relationship found in variables like, hip angle, elbow angle at heel contact and mid stance phase with walking velocity. But, a less economical technique observed in toe off phase for almost every variable as those were negatively associated with mean speed, and so a balance between those fundamental techniques of support phase variables is advisable. The race walkers had shorter swing times, longer contact times, and smaller maximum knee flexion angles (152° ± 7.32) than the distance runners. The smaller knee flexion angles in race walkers meant they experienced greater swing leg moment of inertia than the distance runners.

Fall Risk in Older Adults Transitioning between Different Flooring Materials

As there is lack of understanding about the effect of transitioning between different flooring materials on the gait of older adults, this study investigated the effect of transitioning between a carpeted floor and a vinyl floor on the gait characteristics of older adults. Fourteen older (65 years old and over) and 14 younger (18 to 35 years old) adults walked on different transitional floors by measuring various gait parameters. While the older participants had greater toe clearance than their younger counterparts, the older participants had smaller toe clearance on a carpeted floor than on a vinyl floor, which would increase the probability of a trip-induced fall. Further, the study found the slower transitional acceleration of the whole body COM and the increased friction demand, especially during the toe-off phase, rather than heel contact phase, which will lead to a slip-induced fall on a vinyl floor shortly after transitioning from a carpeted floor to a vinyl floor. Although the increased likelihood of a slip or trip accident was found throughout the changes in gait parameters, the older participants did not perceive of slipping and tripping much. Therefore, older adults are recommended to be made aware of the danger of slipping and tripping while transitioning between different flooring materials.

Using a Vibrotactile Biofeedback Device to Augment Foot Pressure During Walking in Healthy Older Adults: A Brief Report.

Human movement based on sensory control is significant to motor task performance. Thus, impairments to sensory input significantly limit feedback-type motor control. The present study introduces a vibrotactile biofeedback (BF) system which augments information regarding the user’s foot pressure to enhance gait performance. The effects of the proposed system on the gait patterns of healthy older adults and on the cognitive load during gait were evaluated; these factors are essential to clarify feasibility of the device in real-life settings. The primary task of our study was to evaluate gait along with a cognitively demanding activity in 10 healthy older adults. Regarding kinematic and kinetic data in the BF condition, the subjects had significantly increased ankle dorsiflexion during the heel contact phase in the sagittal plane and marginally increased foot pressure at the toe-off and stride length. However, such kinematic and kinetic changes were not attributed to the increased walking speed. In addition, cognitive performance (i.e., the number of correct answers) was significantly decreased in participants during gait measurements in the BF condition. These data suggest that the system had the potential for modifying the kinematic and kinetic patterns during walking but not the more comprehensive walking performance in older adults. Moreover, the device appears to place a cognitive load on older adults. This short report provides crucial primary data that would help in designing successful sensory augmentation devices and further research on a BF system.

Fall Risk in Older Adults Transitioning between Different Flooring Materials

As there is lack of understanding about the effect of transitioning between different flooring materials on the gait of older adults, this study investigated the effect of transitioning between a carpeted floor and a vinyl floor on the gait characteristics of older adults. Fourteen older (65 years old and over) and 14 younger (18 to 35 years old) adults walked on different transitional floors by measuring various gait parameters. While the older participants had greater toe clearance than their younger counterparts, the older participants had smaller toe clearance on a carpeted floor than on a vinyl floor, which would increase the probability of a trip-induced fall. Further, the study found the slower transitional acceleration of the whole body COM and the increased friction demand, especially during the toe-off phase, rather than heel contact phase, which will lead to a slip-induced fall on a vinyl floor shortly after transitioning from a carpeted floor to a vinyl floor. Although the increased likelihood of a slip or trip accident was found throughout the changes in gait parameters, the older participants did not perceive of slipping and tripping much. Therefore, the elderly are recommended to be made aware of the danger of slipping and tripping while transitioning between different flooring materials.

Fall Risk in Older Adults Transitioning between Different Flooring Materials

As there is lack of understanding about the effect of transitioning between different flooring materials on the gait of older adults, this study investigated the effect of transitioning between a carpeted floor and a vinyl floor on the gait characteristics of older adults. Fourteen older (65 years old and over) and 14 younger (18 to 35 years old) adults walked on different transitional floors by measuring various gait parameters. While the older participants had greater toe clearance than their younger counterparts, the older participants had smaller toe clearance on a carpeted floor than on a vinyl floor, which would increase the probability of a trip-induced fall. Further, the study found the slower transitional acceleration of the whole body COM and the increased friction demand, especially during the toe-off phase, rather than heel contact phase, which will lead to a slip-induced fall on a vinyl floor shortly after transitioning from a carpeted floor to a vinyl floor. Although the increased likelihood of a slip or trip accident was found throughout the changes in gait parameters, the older participants did not perceive of slipping and tripping much. Therefore, older adults are recommended to be made aware of the danger of slipping and tripping while transitioning between different flooring materials.

Effect of the cushioning running shoes in ground contact time of phases of gait

The main objective of this research was to know how five different cushioning shoes may interfere in ground contact times of each gait phase of walking and running in contrast with barefoot condition. Thirty healthy sport recreational male runners participated in this study. They played over a treadmill wearing minimalist, Boost®, Ethyl-vinyl-acetate (EVA), Air® chamber and pronation-control cushioning shoes technologies and under barefoot condition, recording the last 30 s of walking and running at 5.17 km/h and 9 km/h respectively, while ground contact time duration of each phase of gait was recorded with circular standard pressure sensors located on plantar feet. During walking, the heel contact phase was the station that increased significantly ground contact times wearing all sole cushioning shoes (p < 0.001), excepting no sole shoes (minimalist), versus barefoot condition, being Air® chamber the model that showed the highest times of contact floor versus barefoot (0.28 ± 0.08 ms and 0.23 ± 0.12 ms vs 0.12 ± 0.07 ms and 0.18 ± 0.07 ms in heel contact during midstance phases, respectively). During running, propulsion phase was the station that showed the highest spent times on ground contact with the floor under all shoe conditions, even with minimalist, being again Air® chamber the model with higher significant times in two of three phases versus barefoot (0.11 ± 0.04 ms and 0.16 ± 0.11 ms vs 0.09 ± 0.03 ms and 0.10 ± 0.02 ms in midstance and propulsion phases respectively). Air chamber® was the model too with the most switch ratio to forefoot strike pattern (0.07 ± 0.10 ms to 0.16 ± 0.11 from heel contact to propulsion phase, respectively). In conclusion, a ground contact times increase using all cushioning running shoes compared with barefoot condition was shown in both walking and running test.