The effect of visual information on gait parameters with induced ankle muscle fatigue

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of visual block with ankle joint fatigue on gait and dynamic balance ability. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Thirty healthy young adults (men=15, women=15) between 22 to 25 years of age voluntarily participated in this study. All subjects performed the gait and dynamic balance test successively in two conditions: the visual block and the open eyes condition. Before the gait and dynamic balance test, muscle fatigue on the ankle joint was induced to all subjects by doing ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion alternately, and then gait parameters (step length, stride length, cadence, velocity, single limb support, and double limb support) were assessed by walking on the GAITRite system (CIR Systems Inc., USA). Subjects also performed the functional reach test (FRT) for assessment of dynamic balance. This study examined gait parameters and FRT scores in each visual block and open eyes condition. Results:The results showed that FRT scores with the visual block condition significantly decreased compared to without visual blocking (p<0.01).Step length, stride length, cadence, and velocity of gait parameters decreased significantly in the visual block condition (p<0.01) while there was no significant difference for single limb support. However, double limb support increased significantly in the visual block system (p<0.01). Conclusions: Therefore, blocking of visual information with muscle fatigue of the ankle joint can affect gait and balance ability of young adults and increase the risk of falls.

Effects of Visual Cue Deprivation Balance Training with Head Control on Balance and Gait Function in Stroke Patients

“…These findings are consistent with the results of previous studies that showed visual cue deprivation training improves balance skills in stroke patients by allowing them to use somatosensory and vestibular sensation input correctly while suppressing excessive visual dependency [ 13 ]. In addition, it has been reported that visual block training is effective in improving the sense of joint position [ 25 ]. When visual information is blocked, the task must be performed by relying on the perceptual sense of and it can promote proprioceptive sensation activity [ 26 ].…”

Immediately Effects of Static Stretching of the Ankle Plantar Flexor for 5 Minutes on Balance Control and Muscle Activity in Healthy Young Adults

“…Therefore, fatigue may diminish ability to maintain balance and reduce posture control ability. 24 Stretching time for balance and degree of sway in the standing position immediately after static stretching of plantar flexor muscles for 5 minutes increase. 25 Studies on this topic indicate that stretching negatively affects balance control, but no quantitative research has been performed to determine how much time is needed.…”