Lower limb biomechanics and control of center of mass during turning phases in daily gait

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the biomechanical characteristics of turning in daily life by analyzing the three-step process of approach, turn, and departure phases. The research involved ten healthy young individuals performing straight walking and 90° turns, categorized into Side-Step (SS) and Cross-Step (CS) turns. Using a 17-camera motion capture system and force plates, the study measured joint angles, moments, and center of mass (COM) variations. The results indicated that turning involves rotational movements of the lower limbs across three phases, with distinct biomechanical roles for each step. From the perspective of COM control, instability increased at the departure foot in SS, while in CS, stability was maintained at both the approach and departure foot.

This study emphasized the importance of rotational movements and rotational forces in the lower limb joints during turning. It also revealed that the center of mass is controlled across three steps. These findings highlight the need for a comprehensive analysis of turning and add a new perspective to gait analysis during turning.