Stability analysis of four-point walking

The aim of the experiment reported here was to determine the static and dynamic stability of two-point stance phases when walking on hands and knees at different speeds. In addition, we defined the methods and predicted the consequences of including two-point stance phases into crutch assisted funct...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Gait & posture 2001-07, Vol.14 (1), p.56-60
Main Authors: Babič, Jan, Karčnik, Tomaž, Bajd, Tadej
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biomechanical Phenomena
Crutches
Dynamic stability
Four-point walking
Functional electrical stimulation
Gait - physiology
Gravitation
Hand - physiology
Humans
Knee - physiology
Male
Paraplegia - physiopathology
Postural Balance - physiology
Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted
Space life sciences
Static stability
Time Factors
Walking - physiology
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Summary:The aim of the experiment reported here was to determine the static and dynamic stability of two-point stance phases when walking on hands and knees at different speeds. In addition, we defined the methods and predicted the consequences of including two-point stance phases into crutch assisted functional electrical stimulation (FES) walking. Crawling on hands and knees was performed at three speeds by five healthy male persons. With twelve joint-position markers placed on the subject, we determined two stability indices for every instant of gait. We analysed the peak values of these two indices during the two-point stance phases. The results indicate that we have to ensure the proper position of the centre of gravity to increase the speed of walking. To reach speeds, lower than 0.6 m/s, it is not necessary to include statically unstable phases. The shift of the centre of gravity towards and across the leading stability edge can result in getting into the dynamically unstable state. Considering the results we can effectively introduce two-point stance phases into crutch assisted FES walking and therefore increase the speed and energy effectiveness of walking
ISSN:0966-6362
1879-2219
DOI:10.1016/S0966-6362(01)00109-6