Backward Walking Induces Significantly Larger Upper-Mu-Rhythm Suppression Effects Than Forward Walking Does

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Backward walking is explored for gait rehabilitation, but its superiority over forward walking is not definitively established.
• Gait is closely linked to cerebral cortex activity, specifically the sensorimotor rhythm (mu rhythm).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of backward and forward walking on cortical activity using electroencephalograms (EEG).
• To investigate if backward walking offers greater sensorimotor cortex engagement than forward walking.

Main Methods:

• EEG signals were recorded during backward and forward walking.
• A systematic procedure was employed to remove motion artifacts from EEG data.
• The sensorimotor rhythm (mu rhythm, 8-12 Hz), particularly the upper mu rhythm (10-12 Hz), was analyzed.

Main Results:

• Walking, in general, significantly suppressed the mu rhythm.
• Backward walking induced a significantly greater suppression of the upper mu rhythm compared to forward walking.
• This suggests enhanced sensorimotor cortex activity during backward walking.

Conclusions:

• Backward walking may offer superior benefits for gait rehabilitation due to increased sensorimotor cortex activation.
• Monitoring upper mu rhythm can help optimize rehabilitation programs by adjusting training intensity and duration.