Blood flow restricted walking alters gait kinematics

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Blood flow restriction (BFR) is increasingly used in exercise.
• Its effects on gait kinematics during treadmill walking require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the impact of BFR on gait kinematics during moderate and fast treadmill walking.
• To assess exercise-related sensations and blood lactate concentrations under BFR conditions.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-one participants walked on a treadmill at moderate and fast speeds with and without BFR (60% arterial occlusion pressure).
• Gait kinematics were measured using motion capture.
• Perceived exertion, discomfort, and blood lactate levels were recorded.

Main Results:

• Fast-walk BFR sessions showed increased anterior trunk flexion and knee flexion during stance.
• Step width increased with BFR, but step length and cadence remained unchanged.
• BFR sessions resulted in higher perceived exertion, discomfort, and blood lactate concentrations.

Conclusions:

• Blood flow restriction during treadmill walking modifies gait kinematics, notably increasing anterior trunk flexion and step width.
• BFR exacerbates exercise-induced sensations and elevates blood lactate levels.