Gait of visually impaired subjects (VIS) is worse than that of sighted ones. VIS can use tactile ground surface indicators to optimize their walking efficiency. Aim of the study was to compare VIS walking efficiency on either trapezoidal and sinusoidal shape leading indicators. VIS walking on the sinusoidal leading indicators showed a worsening of the time-distance parameters (a longer stance phase, a shorter swing phase and shorter step and stride lengths), reduced lower limb joint excursions and increased center of mass oscillations. In conclusion sinusoidal tactile indicators induce a stiffening of joints and a loss of balance with an increased risk of fall.
[Walking efficiency of blind people on trapezoidal and sinusoidal section tactile leading indicators] / Ranavolo, A; Conte, C; Iavicoli, S; Silvetti, A; Serrao, Mariano; Sandrini, G; Pierelli, Francesco; Draicchio, F.. - In: GIORNALE ITALIANO DI MEDICINA DEL LAVORO ED ERGONOMIA. - ISSN 1592-7830. - STAMPA. - 33:3 Suppl(2011), pp. 214-216.
[Walking efficiency of blind people on trapezoidal and sinusoidal section tactile leading indicators].
SERRAO, Mariano;PIERELLI, Francesco;
2011
Abstract
Gait of visually impaired subjects (VIS) is worse than that of sighted ones. VIS can use tactile ground surface indicators to optimize their walking efficiency. Aim of the study was to compare VIS walking efficiency on either trapezoidal and sinusoidal shape leading indicators. VIS walking on the sinusoidal leading indicators showed a worsening of the time-distance parameters (a longer stance phase, a shorter swing phase and shorter step and stride lengths), reduced lower limb joint excursions and increased center of mass oscillations. In conclusion sinusoidal tactile indicators induce a stiffening of joints and a loss of balance with an increased risk of fall.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
