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Quantification of changes in spatial and temporal gait parameters due to path radius
(University of New Brunswick, 2015) A. Smith, Robert; McGibbon, Chris
The study of human walking involves the collection and analysis of data describing body movement during ambulation. From this data, temporospatial gait parameters can be derived as quantitative values that collectively describe gait. These parameters are often used to identify gait pathologies, strategize intervention, and monitor efficacy of treatment. Successful clinical gait analysis depends on normative data that represents everyday walking ability. Existing normative data sets, however, are restricted primarily to linear paths, while natural gait mandates curvilinear paths and frequent changes in direction. Curvilinear paths have been shown to introduce changes in gait parameters unrelated to pathology. This study aims to identify changes in gait parameters during curvilinear walking, and quantify these changes as a function of path radius. A more detailed understanding of this relationship will help improve the diagnosis of gait pathologies and offer insight into the additional biomechanical demands of curved-path walking.