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Effect of backward walking on attention: possible application on ADHD
Davide Viggiano1, Michele Travaglio1, Giovanna Cacciola1
1Dept. Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso (CB), Italy ( davide.viggiano@unimol.it ).
Translational Medicine @ Unisa
|February 13, 2015
Summary
Backward walking training improved attention in children. While controls showed enhanced gait, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children improved their task performance after backward walking practice.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Attentive effort influences human gait patterns.
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with gait modifications.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the relationship between backward walking and attention in children with and without ADHD.
- Explore if backward walking training can causally improve attention and gait parameters.
Main Methods:
- Assessed attentive/impulsive profiles using a Go/No-Go task.
- Measured forward and backward gait parameters (step length, cadence, Froude number).
- Implemented a two-month backward walking training program for children.
Main Results:
- A negative correlation was found between backward walking Froude number and Go/No-Go reaction time.
- Control children showed increased cadence and Froude number after training.
- ADHD children improved Go/No-Go task performance but not gait parameters post-training.
Conclusions:
- Backward walking training may enhance attentive performance in children.
- Physical training incorporating attention-demanding tasks shows potential therapeutic benefits.
