Modulating arm swing via haptic cueing alters interlimb neural coupling in older adults.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Age-related gait impairments are strongly associated with increased fall risk, disability, and mortality. While traditional rehabilitation focuses on the lower limbs, arm movements play a key role in stabilizing gait through interlimb neural coupling. This study investigates whether rhythmic haptic cueing of arm swing, which enhances gait, affects interlimb neuromuscular coordination in older adults.

Methods

Seventeen older adults (mean age = 73.2 ± 6.0 years) completed three walking conditions: Baseline walking, self-selected Fast walking, and walking while rhythmically receiving haptic cues (Cueing) to increase arm swing frequency and walking speed. Gait speed, arm range of motion (ROM), and intermuscular coherence were analyzed using inertial measurement units (IM

SUBMITTER: Khiyara I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12497753 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature