Kinetic and Kinematic Analysis of Gait Termination: A Comparison between Planned and Unplanned Conditions

Purpose: Gait termination (GT) is the transition from steady-state walking to a complete stop, occurring under planned gait (PGT) or unplanned (UGT) conditions. This study aimed investigate biomechanical differences between PGT and UGT, which could help develop therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing difficulty with GT. Methods: Twenty healthy adults performed three trials, followed by UGT trials. was analyzed in phases as follows: Phase 1 (pre-stopping), 2 (initial stopping phase), 3 (terminal phase). Spatiotemporal, kinematic, kinetic data during each phase were compared Results: The GT time step length significantly different Ankle range of motion (ROM) demonstrated significant 1, having slightly lower ankle ROM than UGT. In 2, hip, knee, exhibited Finally, 3, showed reduced hip but increased knee parameters PGT. Conclusion: Our results indicate that joint primarily contributes deceleration initial preparation generating braking force Conversely, reveals disrupted kinesthetic control due instability, leading preference strategy absorb center mass safe rapid response unexpected stimuli. These findings provide valuable insights into mechanisms underlying body stability may contribute development effective rehabilitation strategies impairment.