Article

Gait variability (stride-to-stride fluctuations) is used increasingly as a marker
for gait performance and future mobility status, cognitive status, and falls.
This structured review explicitly examined literature that reported on the
reliability, validity and responsiveness of gait variability in older adults. We
searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PEDRO, Biomechanics,
SportDiscus and PsycInfo databases. Two independent reviewers undertook data
extraction, with adjudication by a third reviewer in cases of disagreement.
Twenty-two full papers were screened and 10 met the predefined inclusion
criteria, involving 1036 participants who were mainly community dwelling older
adults in their 8th decade. A wide range of gait variability parameters, testing
protocols and calculations of gait variability were reported. Reliability
estimates varied, but were mostly fair to moderate. Concurrent validity was
established for stance time variability and change estimates were reported for
stance time and swing time. Standard of reporting was generally poor, with
insufficient detail provided for aspects of measurement and testing protocols.
Further research is required to standardise testing procedures and establish
reliability, responsiveness and validity for confident use of gait variability as
a robust measure.
CI - Copyright (c) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS