Grant: Undergraduate: Mobility, musculoskeletal health and arthritis - ICS

Although 60-70% of stroke survivors regain the ability to walk, only 7-22% are able to walk independently outside their homes. Their independence is further compromised by limitations in the ability to ascend and descend stairs; this ability being the single best predictor of physical activity in the community. Several studies have described the biomechanics (kinematics and kinetics) of stroke mobility in order to target interventions aimed at optimizing gait. Indeed strengthening individual muscle groups such as the ankle plantarflexors and hip flexors has resulted in increased walking speed over short distances although fatigue and poor endurance restrict the functional benefit of the gains. Gait efficiency is generally thought of in terms of the transfer of potential and kinetic energy. Few studies have described the power flow associated with the net muscle forces associated with gait although this approach does not capture the noncontractile elements which can be important as soft tissue is stretched against the force of gravity. In stroke, this passive contribution can be significant since the weak muscles tend to be more fibrous. At present we have no knowledge about the mechanical efficiency of mobility in stroke and given the fact that fatigue is a primary factor restricting mobility, it follows that strategies which harness the energy transfer and power flow between joints and limbs could have far reaching implications for function. This project aims to develop a biomechanical model to calculate the power flow associated with walking and stair negotiation in people with stroke in contrast with similarly aged healthy adults. The information will contribute to our understanding of the gait pattern so that therapists can exploit the energy transfer to maximize function. Mobility is an essential component of health and wellness and instrument in maintaining independence.