Three-Dimensional Kinematic Analysis during Upslope Walking with Different Inclinations by Healthy Adults

Abstract

Abstract.[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate changes of gait strategy, by measurement of gait parameters and kinematic data of the lower limbs during walking on slopes with four different incline angles.[Subjects] A total of 23 healthy adults were recruited for the study.[Methods] Threedimensional kinematic data were measured with a camera-based system, while subjects walked on an upslope at four different inclinations (0°, 8°, 16°, 24°). Data analyses were conducted using ANOVA with repeated measurements to determine the difference of gait parameters according to the slope inclinations.[Results] The kinematics during ascent of the slopes could be clearly distinguished from the kinematics of level walking. Spatio-temporal parameters were significantly affected by slope inclinations. The joint angle of the lower extremities in the sagittal plane was increased at slope inclinations greater than 16°. Ankle and knee joint angles in the frontal plane increased on the 16° and 24° slopes, and the hip joint angle increased on the 24° slope. The knee joint angle only increased on the 24° slope in the horizontal plane.[Conclusion] Alterations of the lower extremities in the sagittal plane were greater than in the other planes and the joint angles of the lower extremities were generally changed on slope of 16° or greater inclination. These results indicate the optimal inclination for slope climbing and may provide therapists with valuable therapeutic strategies for gait training on an inclined slope for patients with locomotion dysfunction.

A Machine Learning Strategy for Locomotion Classification and Parameter Estimation Using Fusion of Wearable Sensors

“…More recent studies show promise of using EMG to predict human intention, online mode classification algorithms, and model-based torque control leveraging kinematic and force data [10], [11], [12], although these systems largely assume a static environment. Because gait kinematics vary with each environmental parameter [13] [14] [15], using static control parameters results in a device unable to adapt to changing environments. This adaptability is also important for monitoring rehabilitation, as walking speed is a common outcome measure [16], and the use of stair [17] and ramp [18] exercises improves muscle strength, balance, and walking speed.…”

Changes of kinematic parameters of lower extremities with gait speed: a 3D motion analysis study

“…Human gait is important for efficient and safe locomotion 1 ) . Gait analysis provides us with important information on the functional capacity of patients when making disability assessments, and in intervention and treatment planning 2 , 3 ) .…”

Influences of treadmill speed and incline angle on the kinematics of the normal, osteoarthritic and prosthetic human knee

“…According to the findings of Anbarian et al [43] and Stief et al [44], patients with varus knee malalignment and an installed OA degenerative process, use more muscular activity in order to stabilize the joint during the stance phase of walking. As inclination increases, knee joint has more flexion at the moment of heel contact as compared to normal walking, that is, at the moment of heel contact, knee joint extension will be greater as compared to walking on a non-inclined surface [45]. As the treadmill incline angle increases, the stride mechanism changes and the joint approaches loose-packed position, and consequently, the value of varus misalignment decreases, as the results obtained by [46].…”