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Is treadmill walking biomechanically comparable to overground walking? A systematic review
Marie B Semaan1, Laura Wallard1, Valentin Ruiz1
1Univ. Polytechnique Hauts-de-France, LAMIH, CNRS, UMR 8201, F-59313 Valenciennes, France.
Gait & Posture
|December 10, 2021
Summary
Treadmill and overground walking biomechanics are largely comparable. However, some kinematic, kinetic, and electromyographic differences exist, requiring consideration for research and rehabilitation protocols.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Treadmill and overground walking equivalency is widely studied.
- No prior systematic review has synthesized this research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically compare biomechanical, electromyographical, and energy consumption outcomes between motorized treadmill and overground walking.
- To identify key differences for application in clinical and research settings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of five databases (ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus) up to January 2021.
- Inclusion of English studies on healthy young adults (20-40 years) comparing lower limb biomechanics, electromyography, and energy consumption.
- Evaluation of 22 studies (n=409) using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in specific kinematic parameters (e.g., pelvic range of motion, hip/knee flexion angles, gait pattern).
- Kinetic differences included sagittal plane joint moments and powers, and center of pressure (COP) velocities.
- Electromyographic outcomes for lower limb muscles also showed significant variations between the two walking conditions.
Conclusions:
- While many outcome measures are comparable, significant kinematic, kinetic, and electromyographic differences exist between treadmill and overground walking.
- Clinicians, trainers, and researchers must consider these differences when designing protocols for rehabilitation, fitness, or research to ensure alignment with overground walking outcomes.
- Protocol registration: CRD42021236335 (PROSPERO).
