Exploring fall training adaptations while walking

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Trips are common in and out of the workplace with most people recovering to avoid a subsequent fall. However, when the recovery attempt fails, a fall can be detrimental.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine adaptations to the elevating response during obstacle tripping while walking on a treadmill. Additionally, the possible transfer effects from adapted responses in the lab to the worksite are explored.

METHODS: Fourteen healthy participants that covered the general working age range (20–70 yrs.) were presented with two different types of tripping obstacles while walking.

RESULTS: Elevating the foot over the obstacle was expected due to all trips being induced during early swing phase (first 33% of the swing phase). However, in addition to the elevating strategy, a novel “push” strategy was observed in all but three participants.

CONCLUSION: The current study provided support that obstacle type influences the behavioral response after a trip. Therefore, obstacles that catch the shoe should be considered when designing functional fall programs. Furthermore, information from the current study is useful for establishing guidelines when developing a fall prevention program in the workplace.