This study examines the combined effects of green noise and texting on gait to understand how multitasking and auditory stimuli affect walking stability. Green noise, associated with relaxation, was the environmental stimulus; texting the cognitive distractor. We hypothesized texting would reduce cadence and stride length, with green noise either stabilizing or disrupting gait. Ten participants walked on a treadmill under five conditions: normal walking (NW), no texting/sound (WNTNS), sound only (WNTS), texting only (WTNS), and texting with sound (WTS). Gait parameters—step length, step width, single support time, and terminal double support time—were analyzed. Step length decreased in WNTS (p = .0106) and WTS (p = .0115) versus NW; step width increased in WTNS (p < .0001). Single support time was prolonged in WTS; terminal double support time increased in all conditions vs. NW (p = .0435). Cognitive and environmental distractions alter gait, potentially increasing fall risk. Further research should explore how green noise and texting influence walking stability.
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