Reorganization of Human Gait and Foot Pressure Patterns After 1-Week Dry Immersion

Dry immersion (DI) is a ground-based model of simulated weightlessness that reduces support and proprioceptive input. This model produces reversible sensorimotor deconditioning and allows simulation of the early acute readaptation phase after spaceflight. We aimed to determine changes in spatiotemporal gait parameters and shin muscle work resulting from 7 d of DI, and whether plantar pressure distribution shifts accompany these changes.

A total of 28 healthy males (14 DI, 14 controls) completed overground walking tests twice pre-DI and 2-3 h post-DI at first standing. Spatiotemporal parameters and plantar pressure (10 zones) were recorded. Surface electromyography [tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius (caput laterale), soleus] was sampled at 2000 Hz; the root mean square of electromyography was computed over phase-relevant intervals.

After DI, walking speed, step frequency, and step length decreased by 19.6%, 8.3%, and 12.3%, respectively. The stance phase increased (≈2% of gait cycle) due to longer double support. Plantar pressure showed posterior-lateral redistribution: reduced loading at the toes and medial forefoot, with increased loading at the heel; lateral forefoot changes showed trends in some subjects. Root mean square electromyography increased in all recorded muscles.

The results obtained are consistent with previous findings after spaceflight and its ground-based models. At the same time, they extend existing knowledge by adding new data on changes in plantar pressure distribution. These alterations may represent both the consequence and the target of locomotor strategies that compensate for gait instability. These findings clarify locomotor risks after short spaceflights. Saveko A, Bekreneva M, Ponomarev I, Shigueva T, Rukavishnikov I, Tomilovskaya E. Reorganization of human gait and foot pressure patterns after 1-week dry immersion. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2026; 97(4):235-242.