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Triceps surae force, length and velocity during walking.
Michael S Orendurff1, Ava D Segal, Michael D Aiona
1Motion Analysis Laboratory, Center of Excellence for Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering, Rehabilitation Research and Development, Veterans Hospital, 1660 S. Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108, USA. michael.orendurff@va.med.gov
Gait & Posture
|January 11, 2005
Summary
This study provides normative data for triceps surae muscle function during walking. These findings help assess and improve treatment for individuals with neuromuscular conditions affecting muscle movement.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Neuromuscular Physiology
- Gait Analysis
Background:
- Muscle contractures in neuromuscular conditions limit joint motion.
- Assessing muscle characteristics beyond length is crucial for functional restoration.
- Normative data is needed for objective evaluation of muscle function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normative data for triceps surae muscle force, length, and velocity during walking.
- To provide benchmarks for evaluating muscle function in clinical populations.
- To guide therapeutic and surgical interventions for neuromuscular conditions.
Main Methods:
- Instrumented gait analysis was performed on 20 healthy adults.
- Kinematic and kinetic data were collected to calculate muscle parameters.
- Gastrocnemius and soleus length, velocity, and plantarflexor force were determined.
Main Results:
- Specific gastrocnemius and soleus length patterns were identified throughout the gait cycle.
- Peak gastrocnemius shortening velocity occurred in early swing, soleus in pre-swing.
- Plantarflexor force peaked in terminal stance at 33.8 N/kg bodyweight.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential normative data for plantarflexor muscle function.
- These benchmarks aid in identifying deviations and assessing interventions.
- Objective evaluation of muscle force, length, and velocity is key for rehabilitation.