Presentation
Effects of Treadmill Inclination and Auditory Cognitive Load on Toe Clearance and Gait Stability
SessionPoster Session 2
DescriptionInsufficient toe clearance during gait increases fall risk, particularly in populations with impaired mobility. This study examines how treadmill inclination and auditory cognitive load (pink noise) influence gait parameters associated with fall risk. Our findings show that treadmill inclination increases stance time (p = 0.003) and stride time (p = 0.008), while pink noise decreases step width (p < 0.001). Additionally, toe clearance was consistently lower in the non-dominant (left) leg across all conditions (p < 0.001). The combination of inclination and pink noise did not compound these effects, suggesting compensatory gait adjustments under maximal cognitive load. These results indicate that both factors independently compromise gait stability, potentially increasing fall risk. Understanding these influences may inform fall prevention and rehabilitation strategies.
Contributors
Event Type
Poster
TimeWednesday, October 15th5:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
LocationRiverside East