| Full text | |
| Author(s): |
de Lima-Pardini, Andrea Cristina
;
Zimeo Morais, Guilherme A.
;
Balardin, Joana Bisol
;
Coelho, Daniel Boari
;
Azzi, Nametala Maia
;
Teixeira, Luis Augusto
;
Sato, Joao Ricardo
Total Authors: 7
|
| Document type: | Journal article |
| Source: | GAIT & POSTURE; v. 56, p. 112-118, JUL 2017. |
| Web of Science Citations: | 3 |
| Abstract | |
Walkers are commonly prescribed worldwide to individuals unable to walk independently. Walker usage leads to improved postural control and voluntary movement during step. In the present study, we aimed to provide a concept-proof on the feasibility of an event-related protocol integrating the analyses of biomechanical variables of step initiation and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure activation of the supplementary motor area (SMA) while using a walker. Healthy young participants were tested while stepping with versus without the use of the walker. Behavioral analysis showed that anticipatory postural adjustments (APA) decreased when supporting the body weight on the walker. Delta (without with) of activation magnitude of the muscle tibialis anterior was positively correlated to the delta of deoxyhemoglobin concentration changes in the SMA. The novelty of this study is the development of a protocol to assess brain function together with biomechanical analysis during the use of a walker. The method sheds light to the potential utility of combining fNIRS and biomechanical assessment during assistive step initiation, which can represent a new opportunity to study populations with mobility deficits. (AU) | |
| FAPESP's process: | 13/15256-0 - Cortical Control of Coupling Between Posture and Gait in Parkinson's disease |
| Grantee: | Andréa Cristina de Lima Pardini |
| Support Opportunities: | Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral |