Immediate Effects of Real-Time Visual Bio-feedback Using Ground Reaction Forces on Gait Symmetry in Elderly Males

摘要

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of real-time visual bio-feedback during walking on the symmetry of the elderly gait. The subjects of this study were 16 elderly men (80.3 +/- 4.6 years, 163.0 +/- 4.7 cm, 64.7 +/- 9.4 kg). They were asked to walk on a treadmill at the preferred speed, and later biofeedback was provided so that the subject could visually confirm the vertical ground reaction force of the both feet in real-time. The variables include three dimensional lower limb joint angle and bilateral symmetry index. As a result, the ROM of dorsi-flexion and plantar-flexion at the ankle joint was increased in the stance and swing phase after providing the visual biofeedback (p < .05). In addition, the symmetry index of double stance, single stance, ROM of hip AA at stance phase, and M/L COP range were decreased after providing the visual biofeedback (p < .05). The results suggested that the visual bio-feedback provided in real-time may have a positive effect on the symmetrical walking of the elderly. It is warranted whether gait exercise program using biofeedback would have a long term effect in future studies.