Backward Walking Induces Significantly Larger Upper-Mu-Rhythm Suppression Effects than Forward Walking Does

Sensors

Chen-Wen Yen¹  Nan-Hung Lin¹  Jia-Li Sung¹  Posen Lee²  Chin-Hsuan Liu³  Lih-Jiun Liaw⁴  Lan-Yuen Guo⁵ 

[1] Department of Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan;Department of Occupational Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan;Department of Occupational Therapy, Kaohsiung Municipal Kai-Syuan Psychiatric Hospital, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan;Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;Department of Sports Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;

关键词: movement-related cortical potentials;    treadmill;    backward walking;    electroencephalography rhythms;    gait rehabilitation;   

DOI  :  10.3390/s20247250

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Studies have compared the differences and similarities between backward walking and forward walking, and demonstrated the potential of backward walking for gait rehabilitation. However, current evidence supporting the benefits of backward walking over forward walking remains inconclusive. Considering the proven association between gait and the cerebral cortex, we used electroencephalograms (EEG) to differentiate the effects of backward walking and forward walking on cortical activities, by comparing the sensorimotor rhythm (8–12 Hz, also called mu rhythm) of EEG signals. A systematic signal procedure was used to eliminate the motion artifacts induced by walking to safeguard EEG signal fidelity. Statistical test results of our experimental data demonstrated that walking motions significantly suppressed mu rhythm. Moreover, backward walking exhibited significantly larger upper mu rhythm (10–12 Hz) suppression effects than forward walking did. This finding implies that backward walking induces more sensorimotor cortex activity than forward walking does, and provides a basis to support the potential benefits of backward walking over forward walking. By monitoring the upper mu rhythm throughout the rehabilitation process, medical experts can adaptively adjust the intensity and duration of each walking training session to improve the efficacy of a walking ability recovery program.

【 授权许可】

Unknown