Article

Previous studies in older adults have identified that chronic low back pain
(CLBP) is associated with slower gait speed. Given that slower gait speed is a
predictor of greater morbidity and mortality among older adults, it is important
to understand the underlying spatiotemporal characteristics of gait among older
adults with CLBP. The purposes of this study were to determine (1) if there are
differences in spatiotemporal parameters of gait between older adults with and
without CLBP during self-selected and fast walking and (2) whether any of these
gait characteristics are correlated with performance of a challenging walking
task, e.g. stair negotiation. Spatiotemporal characteristics of gait were
evaluated using a computerized walkway in 54 community-dwelling older adults with
CLBP and 54 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Older adults with CLBP walked
slower than their pain-free peers during self-selected and fast walking. After
controlling for body mass index and gait speed, step width was significantly
greater in the CLBP group during the fast walking condition. Within the CLBP
group, step width and double limb support time are significantly correlated with
stair ascent/descent times. From a clinical perspective, these gait
characteristics, which may be indicative of balance performance, may need to be
addressed to improve overall gait speed, as well as stair-climbing performance.
Future longitudinal studies confirming our findings are needed, as well as
investigations focused on developing interventions to improve gait speed and
decrease subsequent risk of mobility decline.
CI - Copyright (c) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS