The Effect of Walkway Incline Angle on Balance Control in Healthy Older Adults and Ankle Foot Orthosis Wearers with Lower Motor Neuron Pathologies

Abstract

Navigating a slope carries additional demands compared to level ground, that may be amplified in older adults or individuals with mobility impairments. This study intends to understand the effect of walkway incline angle on balance control in healthy older adults and ankle foot orthosis (AFO) wearers. Twelve healthy older adults (>60 years of age) and four AFO wearers (>60 years of age) ascended and descended slopes ranging from 0° to 8°. AFO wearers completed the protocol with and without their AFOs. Older adults and AFO wearers had a minimum margin of stability that was larger during descent and less during ascent. AFO wearers walked more cautiously, with a wider stance and larger margin of stability in the anterior direction. The results may provide clinicians with information on how orthosis use affects dynamic balance during sloped gait and provides a basis for future work informing environmental design.