Effects of Load Carriage on Postural Control and Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters during Level and Uphill Walking

Mexi, Asimina; Kafetzakis, Ioannis; Korontzi, M.; Karagiannakis, Dimitris; Kalatzis, P.; Mandalidis, Dimitris

doi:10.3390/s23020609

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 66 publications

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“…Previous research has shown that carrying loads can impact the spatiotemporal parameters of human gait and influence the efficiency and safety of movement, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injury [29,30]. Although the physiology and biomechanics of load-bearing carriage properties have been characterized [31], few teams have studied the identification of carriage weights for assistive exoskeletons. Weight can be measured initially, but such measurements are impossible during a mission, such as a march.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Continuous Locomotion Mode and Task Identification for an Assistive Exoskeleton Based on Neuromuscular–Mechanical Fusion

Liu,

Chen,

Wang

et al. 2024

Bioengineering

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Human walking parameters exhibit significant variability depending on the terrain, speed, and load. Assistive exoskeletons currently focus on the recognition of locomotion terrain, ignoring the identification of locomotion tasks, which are also essential for control strategies. The aim of this study was to develop an interface for locomotion mode and task identification based on a neuromuscular–mechanical fusion algorithm. The modes of level and incline and tasks of speed and load were explored, and seven able-bodied participants were recruited. A continuous stream of assistive decisions supporting timely exoskeleton control was achieved according to the classification of locomotion. We investigated the optimal algorithm, feature set, window increment, window length, and robustness for precise identification and synchronization between exoskeleton assistive force and human limb movements (human–machine collaboration). The best recognition results were obtained when using a support vector machine, a root mean square/waveform length/acceleration feature set, a window length of 170, and a window increment of 20. The average identification accuracy reached 98.7% ± 1.3%. These results suggest that the surface electromyography–acceleration can be effectively used for locomotion mode and task identification. This study contributes to the development of locomotion mode and task recognition as well as exoskeleton control for seamless transitions.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Continuous Locomotion Mode and Task Identification for an Assistive Exoskeleton Based on Neuromuscular–Mechanical Fusion

Liu,

Chen,

Wang

et al. 2024

Bioengineering

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Research on the Mechanism of Spinal Stability Under Body Load

Ren,

Xiao

2024

IJSSPE

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In modern society, the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and spinal problems has become increasingly concerning, particularly among students and working professionals who regularly carry heavy loads. The growing awareness of health issues related to load carrying has sparked significant research interest in this field. This study investigated the mechanisms of spinal stability under various loading conditions among college students. While backpacks are essential in daily life, their impact on spinal biomechanics and potential injury risks remains a concern. Twenty university students (10 males, 10 females) participated in this research examining the effects of different load magnitudes (0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30% body weight) and carrying durations on spinal stability. Using three-dimensional motion capture, force platform measurements, and surface electromyography, we analyzed participants' postural control and muscle activity during both static stance and dynamic walking conditions at various gradients (0°, 5°, 10°, 20°). Results showed that loads exceeding 20% body weight caused significant alterations in spinal alignment, with forward lean angles increasing by 7-8 degrees at 30% body weight loading. During inclined walking, the combination of slope and load had multiplicative effects, with 30% body weight load at 20° slope resulting in approximately 10-12 degrees more spine forward flexion compared to level ground. Prolonged loading (60 minutes) led to a 30-35% increase in center of pressure sway range, indicating deteriorated postural control. EMG analysis revealed significant muscle fatigue, with erector spinae and multifidus muscles showing primary roles in maintaining spinal stability. Recovery of spinal stability parameters required approximately 30 minutes following heavy load carrying. These findings provide important guidance for establishing evidence-based recommendations for load carrying among college students and emphasize the need for appropriate rest periods and carrying techniques to maintain spinal health.

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Multidimensional On-Site Perception Study of Stairway Spaces in Mountain City Parks Among Young and Elderly People: A Case Study of Pipa Mountain Park, Chongqing, China

Gong,

Yang,

et al. 2024

Preprint

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Effects of Load Carriage on Postural Control and Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters during Level and Uphill Walking

Cited by 3 publications

References 66 publications

Continuous Locomotion Mode and Task Identification for an Assistive Exoskeleton Based on Neuromuscular–Mechanical Fusion

Continuous Locomotion Mode and Task Identification for an Assistive Exoskeleton Based on Neuromuscular–Mechanical Fusion

Research on the Mechanism of Spinal Stability Under Body Load

Multidimensional On-Site Perception Study of Stairway Spaces in Mountain City Parks Among Young and Elderly People: A Case Study of Pipa Mountain Park, Chongqing, China

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