Article

Significant differences exist between eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC)
conditions in postural sway, self-selected dimensionless walking speed and
duration of double support in both children and adults.
The decrease in speed
could be attributed to a decrease in dimensionless stride length. The question
remains whether the slower gait is a reflection of fundamental changes in
movement control in the absence of vision or it results from uncertainty or fear
of falling. Studying the differences in foot and ankle kinematics between the two
conditions may provide further information. In this study we compare the impact
of visual deprivation on joint kinematics during locomotion in adults and
children. Visual deprivation had a significant effect on the gait pattern of
healthy children and adults. Differences included a more backward leaning
position of the trunk, limited movement in the pelvis, reduced hip adduction
during stance, increased flexion of the knee related to flat foot contact and
reduced ankle plantar flexion at push-off. These differences indicate a more
cautious walking strategy in the absence of vision, probably resulting from
postural control problems. Although age also had a significant effect on gait in
both EO and EC conditions, adults and children show little differences in their
kinematic response to blindfolding.

Langue : ANGLAIS