Visual control of step length during overground locomotion: Task-specific modulation of the locomotor synergy.

Abstract

This study evaluated the dynamics of gait adaptations during overground locomotion. Step length of 20 Ss increased or decreased (by 50% or 30%) on visual cues given at several different times (3 or 2) in the step cycle while walking or running, respectively. Ground reaction forces and temporal data were analyzed for each of the 10 trials per condition. The study implies far greater on-line peripheral control of locomotion than suggested by a dominant central pattern generator control theory