Applying varied pelvis perturbations during treadmill walking improves walking balance and over-ground walking speed in people with incomplete spinal cord injury

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of varied pelvis perturbations on walking balance and over-ground walking speed in people with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). Eleven subjects with iSCI were recruited. Spatial and temporal gait parameters and muscle activities were assessed. Participants increased their muscle activities of the hip abductor, but reduced their margin of stability and step length with the application of the pelvis perturbations. After the treadmill training, participants reduced their double leg support time, and improved their over-ground speed with increased cadence. Applying varied lateral pelvis perturbations during treadmill walking may increase walking balance and over-ground walking speed in people with iSCI.