Force Adaptation in Human Walking With Symmetrically Applied Downward Forces on the Pelvis

Abstract

The application of external constraints and/or applied forces during movement can lead to reactive as well as adaptive changes in human motion. Previous research has shown adaptation in walking kinematics when external forces were applied to a leg. This work aims to study adaptation in human walking when externally applied forces were present on the pelvis during the swing and stance phases of both legs. A novel tethered pelvic assist device (TPAD) was used to passively apply symmetric downward forces on the human pelvis while walking. During the experiment, eight healthy subjects walked on a treadmill at a constant speed while their kinematics and foot pressure data were recorded.