Differences in Falls and Recovery from a Slip Based on an Individual’s Lower Extremity Corrective Response

Abstract

Background: Slips and falls account for high rates of injury and mortality in multiple populations. The corrective responses during the slip perturbation have been well documented. However, when a fall results from a slip, it is unclear which of these responses were inadequate. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine differences in lower extremity corrective responses of the slip recovery response between individuals who fall and those who recover. Methodology: Sixty-four participants completed this study (32 males & 32 females). Participant’s gait kinematics and kinetics were collected during normal gait (NG) and an unexpected slip (US). A prediction equation for slip outcome and slip severity were created using a binary logistic regression model. Results: Our findings show an increased time to peak hip extension (OR = 1.006, CI: 1.000-1.011) and ankle dorsiflexion (OR = 1.005, CI: 1.001-1.009) moments increased the odds of falling, while the average ankle moment was negatively associated with falling (OR = 0.001, CI: 0.001-0.005). Conclusions: Rapid lower extremity corrective responses appear critical in arresting the slip and preventing a fall. While there are various strategies for slip recovery, our findings suggest that the primary recovery mechanism at the slipping hip may play a vital role in preventing the fall.

Lower extremity joint compensatory effects during the first recovery step following slipping and stumbling perturbations in young and older subjects

“…This requires the development of larger internal moments in the hip and knee joints [ 8 ]. In a study of slipping recovery in YS, it was found that hip joint always played the most important role, regardless of the slipping recovery strategies [ 57 ]. Typically, muscles generate force moments across joints during walking [ 58 ].…”