The Variable Component of Lateral Body Sway During Walking in Young And Older Humans

Introduction. Because sideways falls are common in elderly persons, we devised a method to measure variable lateral movements of the thorax with respect to foot position during normal walking. Methods. Movements of the ankles and shoulders were measured during walking a distance of 9 m. Two age groups were studied: young (n = 17, 6 male, mean age 27.3 years) and older (n = 21, 13 male, mean age 72.7 years) people. During walking, the path...