A comparison of selected walking parameters between individuals with vestibular pathology and healthy individuals

The purpose of this study was to compare selected walking parameters (self-selected walking speed [SSWS], double limb support [DLS], intra-individual variability of SSWS, intra-individual variability of the medial-lateral center of mass [COM] excursion, and intra-individual variability of the superior-inferior COM excursion) between participants with vestibular pathology (vestibulopathy) and healthy participants to examine Dynamic Systems Theory. Fifteen participants recently diagnosed with peripheral vestibulopathy and 15 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals participated in this study. Participants walked at their SSWS over a GAITRite mat and within the field-of-view of a Qualisys MacReflex Motion Analysis System. Measurements from the first six acceptable trials were examined. Participants with vestibulopathy walked with a significantly: (a) slower SSWS; (b) greater DLS; and (c) less intra-individual variability of SSWS when compared to healthy participants. The intra-individual variability of the COM excursions was not significantly different between groups. When walking at SSWS, participants with vestibulopathy apparently adopted a strategy that: (a) increased their stability (slower SSWS and greater DLS) to prevent themselves from falling; and (b) was less adaptable (less intra-individual variability of SSWS) and therefore easier to control. Clinical implications from the findings are that physical therapists should consider whether intervention should encourage individuals with vestibulopathy to walk faster or in a consistent manner.