Article

The treadmill is widely used as an instrument for gait training and analysis. The primary purpose of this study was to compare biomechanical variables between
overground and treadmill walking in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Perceived
differences between the two walking modes were also investigated by comparing
self-selected walking speeds. Twenty children with CP performed both overground
and treadmill walking at a matched speed for biomechanical comparison using a 3-D
motion analysis system. In addition, they were asked to select comfortable and
fastest walking speeds under each walking condition to compare perceived
differences. Significant differences in spatiotemporal variables were found
including higher cadence and shorter stride length during treadmill walking at a
matched speed (for all, P<.003). The comparison of joint kinematics demonstrated
significant differences between overground and treadmill walking, which showed
increases in peak angles of ankle dorsi-flexion, knee flexion/extension, and hip
flexion (for all, P<.001), increases in ankle and hip excursions and a decrease
in pelvic rotation excursion while walking on treadmill (for all, P<.002).
Comparison of perceived difference revealed that children with CP chose
significantly slower speeds when asked to select their comfortable and fastest
walking speeds on the treadmill as compared to overground (for both, P<.001). Our
results suggest that these biomechanical and perceived differences should be
considered when using a treadmill for gait intervention or assessment.
CI - Copyright (c) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS