Tactile Biofeedback That Targets Stance Time Acutely Modulates Propulsion Mechanics in Healthy Gait
Christopher Engsberg1, Nathaniel Hunt1, Philippe Malcolm1
1University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Research Square
|July 17, 2026
Summary
Tactile biofeedback targeting stance time increases improved gait propulsion in healthy individuals. This method enhanced trailing limb angles and propulsive forces, offering a potential low-cost rehabilitation tool for stroke survivors.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Biofeedback effectively modifies gait parameters in healthy individuals and stroke survivors.
- Previous studies often focus on the targeted parameter, neglecting interconnected gait features.
- Gait alterations in one parameter can induce changes in others due to its interdependent nature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if tactile biofeedback for increased stance time enhances propulsive gait features.
- Specifically examining changes in trailing limb angles (TLA), peak propulsive forces, and propulsive impulses.
Main Methods:
- Eight healthy individuals participated in the study.
- Tactile biofeedback was applied to the plantar surfaces, instructing varying stance time increases (small, medium, large) to one limb.
- Stance time targets were based on symmetry ratios (0.775-1.225).
Main Results:
- The large stance time increase target significantly increased stance time (0.23 ± 0.02 s).
- This led to significant increases in TLA (8.1 ± 0.8°), peak propulsion (8.1 ± 1.1%BW), and propulsive impulse (2.9 ± 0.3%BW·s).
- Stance time changes strongly correlated with TLA and propulsive impulse.
Conclusions:
- Tactile biofeedback instructing stance time can effectively enhance propulsive gait features.
- This suggests a potential low-cost alternative to exoskeletons or ground reaction force biofeedback for stroke rehabilitation.
- The device may improve temporal and propulsive function of the paretic limb in post-stroke gait rehabilitation.
