Pathways to Improve Gait

Pathways for Improving Gait
According to a new study, floor designs with large, clearly visible cross patterns improve motor activity in patients with Parkinson’s disease [1].

A characteristic feature of Parkinson’s disease is movement disorders, where patients temporarily feel as if their feet are glued to the floor, making it difficult to take a step forward. The use of visual stimulation to regulate or control movements has proven effective, helping patients improve their walking. This research showed that transverse and bright even lines are more effective than parallel stripes.

In many countries, when designing public spaces, accessibility and convenience for people in wheelchairs and with visual impairments are considered, but diseases like Parkinson’s disease are rarely taken into account. Researchers from Charles University and the Czech Technical University evaluated types of floor covering samples that can improve walking in this group of patients

The study included 32 patients (average age 67.5 years), whose disease was diagnosed on average 13 years ago.

Patients were asked to move forward and backward along an eight-meter path with six different floor patterns. Then, the scientists analyzed indicators such as timed walking, number of steps, number of steps in a turn, speed, and step length. They also analyzed the number of correct and incorrect backward counts, as well as the number and total duration of freezing episodes. Patients were asked to assess how the visual perception of the floor affected their walking.

The results showed that bright transverse lines on the floor improved time, speed, number of steps, and step length compared to diagonal lines. Other floor patterns contributed to improved walking and increased movement speed more than a plain floor, but to a lesser extent. Walking with virtual reality glasses also showed better results compared to a regular surface, but patients were often distracted by observing the surrounding reality.

Scientists recommend using research data when designing flooring in public places, medical facilities, and even at home to improve motor activity in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

In addition to a good floor, a favorite song can help you walk more steadily with Parkinson’s disease.

«”Road surface models should be developed to improve gait in patients with Parkinson’s disease” // Movement Disorders». 08.2019.