Article

The impacts of Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD) on the kinematic and
dynamic parameters of walking have been widely discussed.
But little is known on
total mechanical work and energy cost. These two variables are more
representative of the functional impairment undergone by the LLD patients. AIM:
To assess the changes of the mechanical work and energy cost of walking in
subjects with real LLD and to compare their results with healthy subjects in whom
the LLD has been simulated. METHOD: The mechanical work and energy cost data of
60 healthy subjects (speed: 4km/h) with artificial LLD induced by soles (2 and
4cm), 20 patients (speed: 3.75+/-0.5km/h) with real LLD and 20 matched subjects
(speed: 3.75+/-0.5km/h) were collected. Statistical comparisons between the
groups were performed using a t-paired test and ANOVA. RESULTS: Patients with a
real LLD showed a significant decrease in mechanical work and energy cost when
compared to norms. Patients with real LLD provide a better recovery when compared
to subjects with artificial LLD of 2cm, and a decrease of energy cost and higher
muscular efficiency (mechanical work/energy cost) when compared to subjects with
artificial LLD of 4cm. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that patients with a real
LLD develop compensatory strategies during gait, probably to minimize the
displacement of the body center of mass and consequently reduce the amount of
energy expenditure useful for their displacement. Moreover, they adopt a better
gait strategy compared to the subjects in whom LLD was simulated.
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Langue : ANGLAIS