Asymmetrical slip propensity: required coefficient of friction

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Human Movement Science
• Injury Prevention

Background:

• Previous slips and falls research often overlooks leg asymmetry, focusing on ipsilateral leg contact with contaminated surfaces.
• Kinematic and kinetic variables may exhibit asymmetries between the dominant and non-dominant legs during slip events.
• Understanding these asymmetries is critical for accurate analysis and prevention strategies in slips and falls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether the slip tendency differs between a person's dominant and non-dominant legs.
• To compare the Required Coefficient of Friction (RCOF) between the dominant and non-dominant lower limbs.
• To assess the influence of leg dominance on slip propensity and related biomechanical variables.

Main Methods:

• Forty-seven healthy adults participated in the study.
• The Required Coefficient of Friction (RCOF) and heel velocity (HCV) were measured for both the left and right feet upon contacting force platforms.
• Paired t-tests were used to analyze differences in RCOF and HCV between dominant and non-dominant legs.

Main Results:

• Significant asymmetry was observed in RCOFs and HCV between the dominant and non-dominant lower limbs.
• The RCOF of the non-dominant legs was found to be higher than that of the dominant legs.
• These findings suggest a distinct difference in slip tendency based on leg dominance.

Conclusions:

• Asymmetry in slip propensity, quantified by RCOF, exists within the lower extremities.
• The non-dominant leg exhibits a higher RCOF, indicating a greater tendency to slip compared to the dominant leg.
• Incorporating leg asymmetry as a variable in slips and falls research is recommended for enhanced understanding and prevention.