An open-source application for applying rapid transient perturbations using a split-belt treadmill

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Gait Analysis
• Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

• Investigating walking stability often requires specialized perturbation systems.
• Existing systems can be inaccessible due to complex software and equipment requirements.
• There is a need for accessible methods to study gait perturbations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an open-source method for inducing slip- and trip-like perturbations.
• To assess the accuracy and precision of the developed perturbation system.
• To characterize gait stability demands using spatial measurements.

Main Methods:

• An open-source system using a standard split-belt treadmill was developed.
• Hardware and software components were described.
• Perturbations were validated for accuracy and precision.
• Spatial stability measurements (e.g., margin of stability, angular momentum) were used.

Main Results:

• The system successfully induced slip- and trip-like perturbations in participants with unilateral transtibial limb loss.
• Mean onset delay was 183.3 ms (24.18% of stance).
• Perturbations led to measurable changes in gait stability, including altered step length and width, and increased margin of stability and angular momentum.

Conclusions:

• The open-source method is a feasible and accessible alternative to specialized systems for gait perturbation research.
• The system effectively induced instability in individuals with impaired balance.
• Future work will focus on refining the system for improved timing and accuracy.