Article

Previous work evaluating the effects of surface slope on gait has focused on
lower extremity kinematics and kinetics. However, an assessment of multi-segment
foot kinematics during walking on inclined and declined ramps has not been
previously reported. Sagittal ankle motion using a single rigid body foot model
and three-dimensional hindfoot and forefoot kinematics for 24 healthy adults (16
females and 8 males, average age 25.5 +/- 4.4 years) were compared during level
surface, inclined surfaces of 3%, 6%, 9% and 12% grade and a declined surface of
approximately 7.5% grade at a constant speed using a standard treadmill.
Significant differences in peak hindfoot plantarflexion, sagittal plane range of
motion and time of peak dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, varus and valgus were seen
between surface slope conditions. Significant changes were also seen in forefoot
plantarflexion and sagittal plane range of motion however the maximum difference
between conditions was less than 3 degrees . These results indicate that foot
mechanics can be significantly altered when ambulating on ramps in healthy
adults. Specifically, treadmill protocols which incorporate different surface
slopes often encountered during ambulation of daily living, may provide an
improved technique in evaluating a patient's ability to function in the
community.
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