Differences between Sexes and Speed Levels in Pelvic 3D Kinematic Patterns during Running Using an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the 3D kinematic pattern of the pelvis during running and establish differences between sexes using the IMU sensor for spatiotemporal outcomes, vertical acceleration symmetry index, and ranges of motion of the pelvis in the sagittal, coronal, and transverse planes of movement. The kinematic range in males was 5.92°–6.50°, according to tilt. The range of obliquity was between 7.84° and 9.27° and between 9.69° and 13.60°, according to pelvic rotation. In females, the results were 6.26°–7.36°, 7.81°–9.64°, and 13.2°–16.13°, respectively. Stride length increased proportionally to speed in males and females. The reliability of the inertial sensor according to tilt and gait symmetry showed good results, and the reliability levels were excellent for cadence parameters, stride length, stride time, obliquity, and pelvic rotation. The amplitude of pelvic tilt did not change at different speed levels between sexes. The range of pelvic obliquity increased in females at a medium speed level, and the pelvic rotation range increased during running, according to speed and sex. The inertial sensor has been proven to be a reliable tool for kinematic analysis during running.

Walking and Running of Children with Decreased Femoral Torsion

“…In this frame, a tendency towards external rotation of the pelvis during running was shown. External pelvic rotation during running has also been underscored by Perpina-Martinez et al (2023) in a kinematic analysis of 101 male and female adults [ 33 ]. Our study confirmed this tendency among children.…”

The relationship between acceleration during running at optimal speed and changes in the T2 times of the lumbar intervertebral disc

“…However, the similarity in the triaxial acceleration data between treadmill and ground running suggests that the results for the loading direction were unaffected [27]. Although only male subjects were included in the study, sex was standardized because sex differences have been observed in pelvic movements during running [28], which may have affected the loading pattern. Finally, although there is a correlation, other factors may also have an effect.…”

Concurrent Validity of the Ergotex Device for Measuring Low Back Posture

“…Several studies have used inertial sensors to analyze pelvic movement in different planes and/or in different movements/contexts [38][39][40][41][42][43][44]. Some of them have been used as an evaluation method in total hip arthroplasty patients [41,42] or patients with reduced lumbar lordosis (or flat back) posture [40].…”

“…Others have analyzed their validity compared with 3D optical tracking systems during walking and sit-stand and step-up transfers [38,44] or during trunk flexion-extension movements [39]. They have also been used to investigate differences between sexes and speed levels in pelvic kinematics during running [43]. Also, studies have shown that wearable motion sensors and mobile devices have opened new possibilities in telerehabilitation, especially for balance and gait disorders.…”