Increased Stride Length Research Articles

Muscle type-specific effects of bilateral abobotulinumtoxinA injection on muscle growth and contractile function in spastic mice.

Intramuscular injection of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A) is commonly used to improve or maintain the joint range of motion in young children with spasticity. However, the effectiveness of BoNT-A treatment is variable and movement limitations are recurrent. Here we show long-term effects of a single, bilateral abobotulinumtoxinA (aboBoNT-A) injection in the gastrocnemius medialis and soleus muscles of wild-type and spastic (B6.Cg-Glrbspa/J with a mutation in the glycine receptor) mice at a young age (6-7 days). Specifically, we evaluated the impact of aboBoNT-A-A on gait, physical performance, and spontaneous physical behavior, as well as on contractile force characteristics, morphology, and histological phenotype of soleus and gastrocnemius muscles by comparing their results to those of saline-injected controls up to 9 weeks after the injection. The detailed time course of the study specifies the timing of the aboBoNT-A injection at 1 week, the period of behavioral studies from 4-9 weeks, and the age of the mice (10 weeks) at the time of contractile force characteristics and histology assessments. In spastic mice, aboBoNT-A injection had a minor and very specific effect on physical performance, by only modestly increasing stride length as a function of age. aboBoNT-A injection caused a reduction in the force-generating capacity and a slightly smaller physiological cross-sectional area in gastrocnemius medialis, but not in soleus. Reduced physiological cross-sectional area in aboBoNT-A-injected muscles was due to a lower number of muscle fibers, rather than reduced muscle fiber cross-sectional area. The percentage of slow-type muscle fibers and mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase activity were increased, which was associated with an improved muscle endurance capacity. In conclusion, aboBoNT-A injection reduced the number of muscle fibers, causing muscle hypertrophy in remaining fibers and a shift towards more oxidative fibers, resulting in an improved endurance capacity and gait. This study proposed potential cellular mechanisms for the therapeutic efficacy of aboBoNT-A in spasticity.

Relationship Between Stride Mechanics and Shoulder Distraction Force in Collegiate Softball Pitchers.

Softball pitchers experience high shoulder distraction forces, and increased stride lengths are associated with upper extremity pain. Therefore, it is important to consider the influence of stride mechanics on shoulder distraction force in softball pitchers. To determine the relationship between stride mechanics and shoulder distraction force in collegiate softball pitchers. Descriptive laboratory study. A total of 63 collegiate softball pitchers (age, 20.1 ± 1.3 years; height, 173.3 ± 7.4 cm; weight, 79.7 ± 11.7 kg) were included in this study. Each pitcher threw 3 maximum-effort fastballs for a strike, and kinematic data were collected using an electromagnetic tracking system with a sampling frequency of 100 Hz. A forward regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between stride parameters at foot contact (stride length, stride-foot progression angle, and stride-foot position) and shoulder distraction force. Regression analysis revealed a significant and positive relationship between stride length and shoulder distraction force (R 2 = 0.11; F(1, 61) = 7.338; P = .009), where stride length accounted for 11% of the variation in shoulder distraction force. Specifically, shoulder distraction force increased by 0.94 N/kg for every 10% increase in stride length normalized as a percentage of body height. A positive relationship was found between stride length and peak shoulder distraction force during the acceleration phase of the softball pitch. Alternatively, no relationship was found between the other stride parameters (stride position and stride-foot progression angle) and shoulder distraction force. Coaches should be aware of the potential negative implications of increasing stride length during softball pitching. Although prior research has shown that greater stride length may positively affect performance, this may also increase stress at the shoulder.

Gait Training of Healthy Older Adults in a Sitting Position using the Wearable Robot to Assist Arm-swing Rhythm, WALK-MATE ROBOT

Although various walking training robots have been developed and their effectiveness has been recognised, operating these robots requires the implementation of safety measures to avoid the risk of falling. This study aimed to confirm whether arm swing rhythm training in the sitting position using an arm swing rhythm-assisted robot, WMR, improved subsequent walking. Healthy older adults (N = 20) performed arm swing rhythm training in a sitting position for 1 min ×\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\ imes$$\\end{document} three times while being presented with tactile stimulation synchronised with the arm swing rhythm from a robot. An increase in walking performance was observed with increases in stride length and speed. In addition, the stabilisation of the gait pattern was observed, with a decrease in the proportion of the double-foot support phase and an increase in the proportion of the swing phase in one gait cycle. These results suggest that arm swing rhythm training in a sitting position using WMR improves gait in older adults. This will lead to the realisation of safe and low-cost robot-based walking training in sitting position.

Effect of extracorporeal shockwave on gait parameters in patients with plantar fascitis: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPlantar fasciitis (PF) is the most common cause of heel pain affecting both young active patients and older sedentary individuals. It most often arises as a result of degenerative changes in the proximal plantar fascia.AimThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of extracorporeal shockwave on gait parameters in patients with plantar fasciitis.DesignA randomized controlled clinical trial.SettingThe outpatient physiotherapy clinic of the teaching hospital Shibin El Kom.MethodsParticipants were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group (A) (study group): received extracorporeal shockwave therapy one session per week and traditional treatment (ultrasound, stretching exercises, and strengthening exercises) three sessions per week for 4 weeks. Group (B)(the control group): received traditional treatment (ultrasound, stretching exercises, and strengthening exercises) 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. The pre- and post-treatment development of the patients was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) to measure pain, foot function index (FFI) to measure foot function, and Kinovea software to analyze gait parameters (stride length, stride time, walking speed, and cadence).ResultsBoth groups showed improvement in all study variables, but the study group showed more improvement. There was a statistically significant decrease in VAS (p = 0.001), a significant decrease in FFI (p = 0.001), a significant increase in stride length (p = 0.001), a significant decrease in stride time (p = 0.001), a significant increase in walking speed (p = 0.001), and a significant increase in cadence (p = 0.01) post-treatment compared to group (B).ConclusionExtracorporeal shockwave treatment is regarded as a useful treatment for improving gait parameters in patients with plantar fasciitis.Clinical rehabilitation impactExtracorporeal shockwave therapy improved gait parameters in patients with plantar fasciitis as it increases stride length, walking speed, cadence, and decreases stride time. So, it is recommended to be included in the rehabilitation program for patients with plantar fasciitis and gait disabilities.

The effects of cognitive-motor interference on walking performance in adolescents with low balance

BackgroundChildren with reduced motor competence (MC) have reported differences in their walking performance when compared to their typically developed peers, albeit, with inconsistent results.Research questions:What is the effect of reduced balance on walking performance in adolescent boys and girls under cognitive-motor interference conditions? MethodsThis cross-sectional study assessed motor competence, in adolescents aged 13–14 years, using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children 2nd edition and walking performance from gait parameters derived from an inertial measurement unit placed over the estimated centre of mass. Each participant performed two 10 m straight-line walks at their self-selected speed. These consisted of a walk with no distractions and a cognitive-motor interference walk (reciting the alternate letters of the alphabet out loud). A two-way mixed ANOVA was used to assess for significant interactions. Results365 adolescents, (low balance = 58, typical balance = 307) participated in this study (boys = 204, girls = 161). Significant interactions were reported between MC groups and walking condition for walking speed in boys (F(1,195) = 5.23, p= 0.02, ηp2 = 0.03) and girls (F(1,154) = 4.05, p= 0.046, ηp2 = 0.03). Both sexes with low balance reduced their walking speed to a greater extent than their typically developed peers under cognitive-motor interference conditions compared to the single-task walk. In addition, boys with low balance reported increased stride length variability (F(1,198)= 4.40, p= 0.037, ηp2= 0.02) compared to typically developed peers. SignificanceAdolescents with low balance report altered walking. Our data could support a better understanding of the relationship between balance and gait and may help the development of interventions to support those with difficulties.

Kinematical Effects of a Mandibular Advancement Occlusal Splint on Running until Exhaustion at Severe Intensity.

The effects of occlusal splints on sport performance have already been studied, although their biomechanical impacts are often overlooked. We investigated the kinematical changes during running until exhaustion at severe intensity while wearing a mandibular advancement occlusal splint. Twelve trained runners completed (i) an incremental protocol on a track to determine their velocity corresponding to maximal oxygen uptake and (ii) two trials of square wave transition exercises at their velocity corresponding to maximal oxygen until exhaustion, wearing two occlusal splints (without and with mandibular advancement). Running kinematics were compared within laps performed during the square wave transition exercises and between splint conditions. The mandibular advancement occlusal splint increased the running distance covered (~1663 ± 402 vs. 1540 ± 397 m, p = 0.03), along with a noticeable lap effect in decreasing stride frequency (p = 0.04) and increasing stride length (p = 0.03) and duty factor (p < 0.001). No spatiotemporal differences were observed between splints, except for improved balance foot contact times in the mandibular advancement condition. An increased knee flexion angle at initial contact (p = 0.017) was noted along laps in the non-advancement condition, despite the fact that no differences between splints were found. Running patterns mainly shifted within laps rather than between conditions, indicating that a mandibular advancement occlusal splint had a trivial kinematical effect.

Comparative kinematic analysis of high-speed treadmill vs. overground sprinting across athletic levels and sex.

This investigation aimed to dissect the kinematic differences in sprinting between high-speed treadmill and overground conditions, examining how these variations are influenced by the athlete's training status and biological sex. A total of 40 participants, 20 NCAA Division 1 sprinters and 20 recreational runners, performed a series of maximal sprints on a high-speed treadmill and on a standardized competition overground track. Sprinting kinematic variables such as stride length, stride frequency, contact time, and flight time were collected via photoelectric sensors. Maximal sprinting kinematics were analyzed by linear mixed-effects models, considering the impacts of sprinting environment (treadmill vs. overground), training level, and sex, with leg length as fixed factors and individual athletes as random effects. Statistical significance was set at a significance level of 0.05. The statistical analysis revealed that high-speed treadmill sprinting significantly affects all measured kinematic variables, leading to increased stride frequency and contact time. Elite sprinters demonstrated enhanced kinematic efficiency over recreational runners, characterized by increased stride length and frequency and reduced contact time. Sex-based kinematic distinctions also emerged, with male athletes exhibiting superior stride length and frequency compared to female athletes. Leg length significantly influenced stride frequency, and an interaction effect was observed for flight time between sprint type and athletic group. These findings elucidate the distinct biomechanical profiles across sprinting modalities and athlete demographics, emphasizing the need for sprint training customization. This study's insights offer a valuable reference for coaches and athletes to refine training and performance assessment in varied sprinting environments.

The Effect of a New Generation of Ankle Foot Orthoses on Sloped Walking in Children with Hemiplegia Using the Gait Real Time Analysis Interactive Lab (GRAIL).

Cerebral palsy poses challenges in walking, necessitating ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) for stability. Gait analysis, particularly on slopes, is crucial for effective AFO assessment. The study aimed to compare the performance of commercially available AFOs with a new sports-specific AFO in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and to assess the effects of varying slopes on gait. Eighteen participants, aged 6-11, with hemiplegia, underwent gait analysis using GRAIL technology. Two AFO types were tested on slopes (uphill +10 deg, downhill -5 deg, level-ground). Kinematic, kinetic, and spatiotemporal parameters were analyzed. The new AFO contributed to significant changes in ankle dorsi-plantar-flexion, foot progression, and trunk and hip rotation during downhill walking. Additionally, the new AFO had varied effects on spatiotemporal gait parameters, with an increased stride length during downhill walking. Slope variations significantly influenced the kinematics and kinetics. This study provides valuable insights into AFO effectiveness and the impact of slopes on gait in hemiplegic cerebral palsy. The findings underscore the need for personalized interventions, considering environmental factors, and enhancing clinical and research approaches for improving mobility in cerebral palsy.

Alterations in stride-to-stride fluctuations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease during a self-paced treadmill 6-minute walk test.

Evaluating variability and stability using measures for nonlinear dynamics may provide additional insight into the structure of the locomotor system, reflecting the neuromuscular system's organization of gait. This is in particular of interest when this system is affected by a respiratory disease and it's extrapulmonary manifestations. This study assessed stride-to-stride fluctuations and gait stability in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during a self-paced, treadmill 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and its association with clinical outcomes. In this cross-sectional study, eighty patients with COPD (age 62±7y; forced expiratory volume in first second 56±19%predicted) and 39 healthy older adults (62±7y) were analyzed. Gait parameters including stride-to-stride fluctuations (coefficient of variation (CoV), predictability (sample entropy) and stability (Local Divergence Exponent (LDE)) were calculated over spatiotemporal parameters and center of mass velocity. Independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U test and ANCOVA analyses were conducted. Correlations were calculated between gait parameters, functional mobility using Timed Up and Go Test, and quadriceps muscle strength using dynamometry. Patients walked slower than healthy older adults. After correction for Speed, patients demonstrated increased CoV in stride length (F(1,116) = 5.658, p = 0.019), and increased stride length predictability (F(1,116) = 3.959, p = 0.049). Moderate correlations were found between mediolateral center of mass velocity LDE and normalized maximum peak torque (ρ = -0.549). This study showed that patients with COPD demonstrate alterations in stride length fluctuations even when adjusted for walking speed, highlighting the potential of nonlinear measures to detect alterations in gait function in patients with COPD. Association with clinical outcomes were moderate to weak, indicating that these clinical test are less discriminative for gait alterations.

From such great heights: The effects of substrate height and the perception of risk on lemur locomotor mechanics.

An accident during arboreal locomotion can lead to risky falls, but it remains unclear that the extent to which primates, as adept arborealists, change their locomotion in response to the perceived risk of moving on high supports in the tree canopy. By using more stable forms of locomotion on higher substrates, primates might avoid potentially fatal consequences. Using high-speed cameras, we recorded the quadrupedal locomotion of four wild lemur species-Eulemur rubriventer, Eulemur rufifrons, Hapalemur aureus, and Lemur catta (N = 113 total strides). We quantified the height, diameter, and angular orientation of locomotor supports using remote sensors and tested the influence of support parameters on gait kinematics, specifically predicting that in response to increasing substrate height, lemurs would decrease speed and stride frequency, but increase stride length and the mean number of supporting limbs. Lemurs did not adjust stride frequency on substrates of varying height. Adjustments to speed, stride length, and the mean number of supporting limbs in response to varying height often ran counter to predictions. Only E. rubriventer decreased speed and increased the mean number of supporting limbs on higher substrates. Results suggest that quadrupedal walking is a relatively safe form of locomotion for lemurs, requiring subtle changes in gait to increase stability on higher-that is, potentially riskier-substrates. Continued investigation of the impact of height on locomotion will be important to determine how animals assess risk in their environment and how they choose to use this information to move more safely.

Abstract TP74: MR-001 Improves Stride Length and Cadence in People With Chronic Stroke Walking Impairment

Introduction: Chronic stroke walking impairments impact approximately 3.5 million Americans and can lead to decreased quality of life, increased fall risk, and increased comorbidities. Stroke results in changes to spatiotemporal gait characteristics, including cadence, stride length, and speed, which can negatively impact walking stability and increase falls. In a multicenter randomized controlled trial, MR-001 was shown to increase comfortable walking speed more than Active Control (walking without MR-001). The purpose of this investigation is to characterize the spatiotemporal gait changes underlying MR-001's improvement in walking speed. Methods: Participants (n = 34) received the MR-001 (InTandem™) intervention for 30 minutes, 3 times a week for 5 weeks. MR-001 autonomously delivers an individualized and progressive intervention based on the principles of rhythmic auditory stimulation. The device algorithm uses input from foot-worn sensors to change the auditory stimuli in the form of embedded cues in time-shifted music. This secondary analysis from a larger clinical trial included change in stride length and cadence while walking without auditory stimuli, calculated as the change from before to after the intervention, as well as the relative contribution of changes in stride length and cadence to changes in walking speed. Results: Participants showed a significant increase in both stride length [+8%, Δ 0.06 +/- 0.02 m, p &lt; 0.004] and cadence [+4%, Δ 3.04 +/- 1.32 steps/min, p &lt; 0.028]. The average increase in stride length was 2x the established minimal detectable change of 4%. Changes in stride length and cadence each independently predicted the change in speed [ R 2 = 0.99, F (2,31) = 1132.44, p &lt; 0.001], with the change in stride length being the stronger contributor [stride length: β = .78, p &lt; 0.001, cadence: β = .50, p &lt; 0.001]. Conclusions: Post-stroke reductions in stride length and cadence result in slower walking speed and negatively impact walking stability. In conclusion, results of this secondary analysis show that the previously reported increase in walking speed resulting from MR-001 is influenced by stride length more strongly than cadence for individuals with chronic stroke walking impairment.

Functional evaluation of a novel fibreglass-reinforced polyamide custom dynamic AFO for foot drop patients: A pilot study

BackgroundAnkle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are orthopaedic devices often prescribed to treat foot drop. For patients who are not satisfied with off-the-shelf solutions, custom AFOs personalized to the patient's lower limb anatomy are required. Dynamic AFOs provide stability while allowing for physiological ankle mobility in the stance phase of walking. Research questionCan a morphology-based dynamic custom AFO made of fiberglass-reinforced polyamide restore a quasi-normal gait pattern and improve comfort in patients with foot drop? MethodsIn this pilot study, the legs and feet of ten foot drop patients (age=64.9 ± 11.4 years; BMI=26.2 ± 2.1 kg/m2) were scanned using a Kinect-based 3D scanner. A custom AFO was designed and produced for each patient using a fiberglass-reinforced polyamide through selective laser sintering. To assess kinematics, skin markers were placed on relevant bony landmarks according to a validated protocol. Each patient was instructed to walk at a self-selected comfortable speed under three conditions: wearing the custom AFO, wearing an off-the-shelf orthosis (Codivilla spring), and without any AFO (shod condition). Muscle activation in the tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius, rectus femoris and biceps femoris muscles in both legs was recorded using wireless sEMG sensors. The comfort and of each AFO was evaluated using a Visual Analogue Scale. ResultsThe custom AFO resulted in significant increase of stride length and walking speed compared to the shod condition. Except for the hip joint, which exhibited greater maximum flexion and reduced range of motion, the kinematic parameters of all other joints were similar to those observed in a healthy control population. Furthermore, the custom AFO received significantly higher comfort scores compared to the Codivilla spring. SignificanceThis study has provided evidence supporting the effectiveness of custom orthotic solutions in restoring lower limb kinematics and improving the perceived comfort in foot drop patients compared to off-the-shelf solutions.

Gait analysis using three-dimensional motion and ground reaction force systems in patients with hemiplegia treated with botulinum toxin type A in ankle plantar flexors.

Objective: The efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injection on spasticity has usually been measured using the range of motion (ROM) of joints and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS); however, they only evaluate muscle tone at rest. We objectively analyzed the gait of three patients with hemiplegia using three-dimensional motion analysis and ground reaction force (GRF) systems to evaluate muscle tone during gait. Materials and Methods: We measured passive ankle dorsiflexion ROM with knee extension and the MAS score for clinical evaluation, and gait speed, stride length, single-leg support phase during the gait cycle, joint angle, joint moment, and GRFs for kinematic evaluation before and one month after BoNT-A injection. Results: All patients showed an increase in ankle dorsiflexion ROM, improvement in MAS score, and increase in stride length. Case 1 showed an increase in gait speed, prolongation of the single-leg support phase, increase in hip extension angle and moment, and improvement in the vertical and anterior-posterior components of the GRFs. Case 2 showed an increase in gait speed, improvement in double knee action, increase in ankle plantar flexion moment, and improvement in propulsion in the progressive component of the GRFs. Case 3 exhibited a laterally directed force in the GRFs. Conclusion: We evaluated the effects of BoNT-A injections in three patients with hemiplegia using three-dimensional motion analysis and GRFs. The results of the gait analysis clarified the improvements and problems in hemiplegic gait and enabled objective explanations for patients.

Change of Segmental Motion Following Total Ankle Arthroplasty Using a 3-Dimensional Multi-segment Foot Model.

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) enhances patients' subjective outcomes with respect to pain and function. The aim of this study was to analyze the biomechanical changes of the affected limb following TAA using gait analysis with a 3-dimensional multi-segment foot model (3D MFM). We reviewed medical records, simple radiographs, and gait analyses using a 3D MFM of patients who underwent TAA for severe varus ankle arthritis. Preoperative and postoperative gait data of 24 patients were compared. Postoperative gait analyses were done at least 1 year after surgery. TAA significantly increased stride length (p = 0.024). The total range of motion of all planes in the hindfoot and forefoot showed no significant changes between preoperative and postoperative states. Hindfoot was significantly plantarflexed and pronated after TAA, while forefoot was significantly supinated in all phases. After appropriate calculations, the genuine coronal motion of the hindfoot showed no changes after TAA in all phases. TAA did not result in biomechanical improvements of segmental motions in the forefoot and hindfoot, except for changes to the bony structures. Therefore, it is important to point out to patients that TAA will not result in significant improvement of ankle function and range of motion. Clinicians can consider this information during preoperative counseling.

Self-treatment of freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease patients using silicone pads to apply Thai acupressure to plantar acupoints: A randomised, controlled trial

IntroductionFreezing of gait (FOG) involves dysfunction of the motor and sensory systems. Peripheral sensory stimuli, including Thai acupressure, can improve proprioceptive function and decrease FOG episodes. Here, we sought to determine the efficacy of acupressure as a self-treatment to alleviate FOG in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). MethodsWe conducted an open-label, controlled trial of 60 PD patients with FOG while medicated, randomised into two groups: an active-treatment group using silicone pads to apply pressure to plantar acupoints on the head of the big toe and the base of the first metatarsal bone on each foot for 6 s using patient body weight while seated, repeated four times for each acupoint bilaterally, and a sham-treatment group using a similar protocol without the silicone pads. The primary outcome was stride length. Secondary outcomes included FOG episodes, FOG duration, percent duration of FOG to total gait time (%FOG), and gait parameters. A baseline-adjusted analysis of covariance was used to compare outcomes between the two groups. ResultsCompared with the sham treatment, the active treatment increased stride length, gait velocity, and cadence (all p < 0.001), and decreased FOG episodes and duration (both p < 0.001), %FOG (p = 0.011), and double-support time (p < 0.001). No adverse effects were noted. ConclusionsAcupressure using silicone pads to stimulate plantar acupoints for self-treatment is a noninvasive, simple, safe way to improve gait and alleviate FOG in patients with PD. Clinical Trial RegistrationWe registered the study prospectively in the Thai Clinical Trial Registry No. TCTR20200317001.

A Pneumatically Controlled Prosthetic Socket for Transfemoral Amputees.

Amputees typically experience changes in residual limb volume in their daily lives. It causes an uncomfortable fit of the socket by applying high pressure on the sensitive area of the residual limb or by loosening the socket. In this study, we developed a transfemoral prosthetic socket for above-the-knee amputees that ensures a good socket fit by maintaining uniform and constant contact pressure despite volume changes in the residual limb. The socket has two air bladders in the posterior femoral region, and the pneumatic controller is located on the tibia of the prosthesis. The pneumatic system aims to minimize unstable fitting of the socket and improve walking performance by inflating or deflating the air bladder. The developed socket autonomously maintains the air pressure inside the prosthetic socket at a steady-state error of 3 mmHg or less by adjusting the amount of air in the air bladder via closed-loop control. In the clinical trial, amputee participants walked on flat and inclined surfaces. The displacement between the residual limb and socket during the gait cycle was reduced by up to 33.4% after air injection into the socket. The inflatable bladder increased the knee flexion angle on the affected side, resulting in increased stride length and gait velocity. The pneumatic socket provides a stable and comfortable walking experience not only when walking on flat ground but also on slopes.

A New Index to Evaluate Running Coordination Based on Notational Analysis.

The aim of this study was 1) to define a new index to describe running coordination, named % of coordination, and 2) to examine whether it could represent an order parameter in relation to running velocity. Twelve international middle-distance athletes (six males and six females) performed three trials at easy, 5000 m pace and sprint velocities while filmed from a lateral view at 240 Hz. Notational analysis of six lower-limb key events corresponding to touchdown, mid-stance and flight phases was performed with high values of intra- (maximum standard deviation = 7 ms) and inter-operator (maximum systematic bias = 6 ms) reliability. Running velocity manipulations resulted in substantial and progressive increases in stride length, stride frequency (all p's < 0.001) and % of coordination (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.77), while duty factor showed a progressive reduction (p < 0.001, R2c = 0.86). However, % of coordination depended on the stride phase (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.78), with greater time gaps between key events in touchdown and mid-stance than in the flight phase. Results confirmed that % of coordination can illustrate changes in movement organisation, representing an easy tool for evaluating the running technique of competitive athletes.

The Effect of Using Marathon Shoes or Track Spikes on Neuromuscular Fatigue caused by a Long-distance Track Training Session.

This study aims to compare the effect of the Nike ZoomX Dragonfly track spikes and the Nike ZoomX VaporflyNext% 2 marathon shoes on the fatigue manifestations present over and after a long-distance track training session. Thirteen highly trained athletes completed two training sessions (i. e., 9- and 3-minute time trials with complete recovery) with the aforementioned footwear models. The pace, ground contact time, and stride length were measured over the time trials, and maximal countermovement jumps were performed previously and after the training session. The results revealed that, although there was no significant interaction in the pace distribution (p≥0.072), athletes tend to be only able to increase the pace at the last lap with the marathon shoes (5.4 meters [-3.7 to 14.5 meters]) meanwhile with the track spikes it further decreased (-3.1 meters [-9.8 to 3.6 meters]). A reduced ground contact time over the session (p=0.025) and a tendency toward increasing stride length (p=0.09) in the last time trial were observed. The significant interaction on the countermovement jump height (p=0.023; Track spikes: -5.60%; Marathon shoes: 0.61%) also indicates that footwear influences the resulted allostatic load.

The Impact of Neurorehabilitation on the Motor Function and Independence Patients with Post-Stroke Hemiplegia

Objective: To explore the effect of neurorehabilitation on the motor function and independence of patients with post-stroke hemiplegia. Methods: 62 stroke patients from August 2020 to August 2022 with hemiplegia were selected for this study. The patients were randomly divided into a study group (neurorehabilitation) and a control group (conventional rehabilitation). Gait changes, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), activities of daily living (BI index), motor function (Fugl-Meyer), quality of life (SF-36) and treatment satisfaction of both groups were compared. Results: The stride length (SL) and the fastest walking speed within 10 m (10 mMWS) of the research group were better than those of the control group (P &lt; 0.05). The NIHSS, Barthel Index, Fugl-Meyer, SF-36, and other scores of the research group were better than those of the control group (P &lt; 0.05). The treatment satisfaction of the study group was higher than that of the control group, P &lt; 0.05. Conclusion: Neurorehabilitation is highly effective and feasible in improving walking speed, increasing stride length, and reducing nerve function damage in stroke patients with hemiplegia.

Function of revolute zygapophyses in the lumbar vertebrae of early placental mammals.

The unique morphology of mammalian lumbar vertebrae allows the spine to flex and extend in the sagittal plane during locomotion. This movement increases stride length and allows mammals to efficiently breathe while running with an asymmetric gait. In extant mammals, the amount of flexion that occurs varies across different locomotor styles, with dorsostable runners relying more on movement of long limbs to run and dorsomobile runners incorporating more flexion of the back. Although long limbs and a stabilized lumbar region are commonly associated with each other in extant mammals, many "archaic" placental mammals with short limbs had lumbar vertebrae with revolute zygapophyses. These articulations with an interlocking S-shape are found only in artiodactyls among extant mammals and have been hypothesized to stabilize against flexion of the back. This would suggest that archaic placental mammals may not have incorporated dorsoventral flexion into locomotion to the same extent as extant mammals with similar proportions. We tested the relative mobility of fossil lumbar vertebrae from two early placental mammals, the creodonts Patriofelis and Limnocyon, to see how these vertebrae may have functioned. We compared range of motion (ROM) between the original vertebrae, with revolute morphology and digitally altered vertebrae with a flat morphology. We found that the revolute morphology had relatively little effect on dorsoventral flexion and instead that it likely prevented disarticulation due to shear forces on the spine. These results show that flexion of the spine has been an important part of mammalian locomotion for at least 50 million years.