People preferentially increase hip joint power generation to walk faster following traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Background. Reduced gait speed is common following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Several studies have found that people with TBI display increased lateral movement in their center of mass while walking. It has been hypothesized that reduced gait speed following TBI is a consequence of increased caution and postural instability, but reduced ankle power generation at push-off may also play a contributing role. Objective. To determine whether postural instability or reduced muscle power were associated with reduced gait speed following TBI. Methods. A convenience sample of 55 people with TBI receiving physiotherapy for gait disorders were assessed using 3D gait analysis at self-selected and fas..