Gait Biomechanics, Spatial and Temporal Characteristics, and the Energy Cost of Walking in Older Adults With Impaired Mobility

Abstract

Closer inspection of hip extension, step width, and cadence during physical therapy gait assessments may assist physical therapists in recognizing factors that contribute to the greater energy cost of walking in older adults.

The long-term effect of comprehensive geriatric care on gait after hip fracture: the Trondheim Hip Fracture Trial—a randomised controlled trial

“…The first part of table comparing participants performing the GAITRite assessment at 12 months compared to subgroups with missing data (one-way ANOVA, post hoc Games-Howell), the second part comparing treatment arms (Student's t test) within each sub group compensating strategies to secure gait as compared to the CGC group [33,34]. These compensating strategies are associated with higher energy costs of walking [35,36]. High energy costs of walking are related to activity avoidance and reduced function [37] and could be part of the explanation why participants in the CGC group reported better quality of life and more independence in daily life activities [18].…”

The effect of aging on gait parameters in able-bodied older subjects: a literature review

“…Likewise, in one study in the impaired elderly, it was reported that the additional work required with increased walking cadences is likely due to increased muscle demands for more frequent limb progression and ground contact [72]. Poor efficiency of movement exacerbated by coactivation of antagonistic muscle groups is partially responsible for elevated costs of mobility in older persons [53].…”

Effect of Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain on Walking Economy: An Observational Study

“…As the integrity of the walk characteristics contribute to its economy and may be deteriorated by pathological conditions (Christiansen, Schenkman, McFann, Wolfe, & Kohrt, 2009;Mahaudens, Detrembleur, Mousny, & Banse, 2009;Waters & Mulroy, 1999;Wert, Brach, Perera, & van Swearingen, 2010), determining the extent of the impact of certain diseases on gait economy has become important, especially for rehabilitation professionals. Although the prevalence of low back pain is high (Ehrlich, 2003;Welch, 2012), the walking economy in people with low back pain has received poor attention.…”