Kinematic and Kinetic Comparison between Stair Climbing and Level Walking

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to investigate the characteristics of stair climbing through the comparison between the stair climbing and level walking, and to present the standard values of stair climbing. METHOD: Twenty healthy young adults were recruited. The kinematic and kinetic data of level walking and stair climbing on the specially designed stair were obtained through 3 dimensional motion analyzer (Vicon 370 system) with the force plate. RESULTS: The sagittal range of motion of all examined joints at stair climbing was significantly increased compared as at level walking (p<0.05). The maximal flexion angle at swing phase of all examined joints were significantly increased at stair climbing compared than at level walking (p<0.05). At loading response, the kinetic data showed the significant differences between stair climbing and level walking. The time when the maximal extensor moment of knee developed was significantly earlier than when that of hip developed (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: As a results, we found that stair climbing was different from level walking and had the unique pattern in the kinematic and kinetic aspect. The motion analysis of stair climbing may be useful to the further studies.