Masters Applied Projects

Project 20

Gait Symmetric Adaptation and Retention to Short-Term Visual Distortion and Split-Belt Treadmill Walking

Student:
Arianna Marquez

Mentors:

Dr. Claire Honeycutt, PhD – Arizona State University, SBHSE
Dr. Hyunglae Lee, PhD – Arizona State University, SEMTE
Dr. Thurmon Lockhart, PhD – Arizona State University, SBHSE
Dr. Daniel Peterson, PhD – Arizona State University, College of Health Solutions

YouTube Link:
View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link:
https://asu.zoom.us/j/3725229483


Abstract
Neurological disease or injury, such as stroke or Parkinson’s, can limit the ability to walk due to loss of functionality and coordination of the lower extremities. In the clinical setting, gait training is the widely used rehabilitation technique for aiding patients in rebuilding their ability to walk. Previously published studies have proved the effectiveness of split-belt (SB) treadmill training and visual distortion (VD) on the adaptation and retention of an induced asymmetrical gait pattern, both on their own and in combination, with VDSB producing the largest and longest sustained gait asymmetry followed by VD and then SB. The present study aims to characterize the combined effect of VD and SB, and determine if the asymmetric pattern can be preserved when the experiment is shortened in order to increase efficiency. The study used a motion capture system to capture the subjects’ movements during walking on a treadmill where there was a two minute period of normal walking, followed by a six minute period of adaption walking (VDSB), and finished with a ten minute period of post-adaptation walking (no stimulus). This data was then used to determine the step-lengths and step-length ratios which explain the step-length symmetry. The findings of this research will help develop more robust gait rehabilitation techniques, as the aftereffects seen are anticipated to help induce symmetric gait in participants with asymmetric gait patterns due to motor impairments.