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Effect of restricted spinal motion on gait
Regina Konz1, Stefania Fatone, Steven Gard
1Northwestern University Prosthetics Research Laboratory and Rehabilitation Engineering Research Program, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. r-konz@northwestern.edu
Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development
|July 19, 2006
Summary
Spinal restriction significantly alters gait mechanics, reducing pelvic motion and hip abduction. This research explores how spinal orthoses impact walking in healthy individuals.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Gait Analysis
Background:
- Spinal orthoses are widely used for spinal conditions.
- Their impact on pelvic and lower-limb motion during gait is not well understood.
- The role of the spine in walking requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of spinal restriction on gait in able-bodied individuals.
- To quantify changes in pelvic and hip motion during walking with spinal restriction.
- To understand the consequences of limited spinal mobility on gait patterns.
Main Methods:
- Gait analysis was performed on 10 able-bodied subjects.
- Subjects walked at five different speeds with and without a fiberglass body jacket (TLSO).
- Kinematic data of pelvic and hip motion were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Spinal restriction significantly reduced peak-to-peak pelvic obliquity and rotation across all speeds.
- Peak-to-peak pelvic tilt reduction was observed at faster speeds.
- Peak-to-peak hip abduction-adduction significantly decreased, while hip flexion-extension increased at slower speeds.
Conclusions:
- Restricted spinal motion significantly affects gait parameters, including pelvic and hip kinematics.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for clinicians managing patients with spinal orthoses or post-surgical spinal immobility.
- Monitoring patients for gait-related issues secondary to reduced spinal and pelvic motion is recommended.
