Adaptive gait responses to varying weight‐bearing conditions: Inferences from gait dynamics and H‐reflex magnitude

• DOI: 10.1113/ep091492
• Publication Date: 2024-03-16T06:28:50Z
• Authors: Yong Kuk Kim; Michelle Gwerder; William R. Taylor; Heiner Baur; Navrag B. Singh
• Keywords: Weight-bearing; Treadmill

Abstract This study investigates the effects of varying loading conditions on excitability in neural pathways and gait dynamics. We focussed evaluating magnitude Hoffman reflex (H‐reflex), a neurophysiological measure representing capability to activate motor neurons timing placement foot during walking. hypothesized that weight manipulation would alter H‐reflex magnitude, footfall lower body kinematics. Twenty healthy participants were recruited subjected various weight‐loading conditions. The H‐reflex, evoked by stimulating tibial nerve, was assessed from dominant leg Gait evaluated under five conditions: weight, 20% 40% additional reduced (via harness). Participants walked barefoot treadmill each condition, electrical stimulation set stance phase shortly after heel strike. Results show different significantly impact stability. Weight reduction led 25% decrease double limb support time an 11% narrowing step width, while addition resulted increase 9% width compared condition. Furthermore, swing variability higher for both extreme conditions, about 45% between Finally, showed significant main phases, indicating muscle‐motor might serve as feedback enhanced regulation dynamics challenging