Cognitive Function, Foot Biomechanics, Gait
Conditions
Brief summary
This study aims to investigate the relationship between foot arch structure and spatiotemporal gait parameters and cognitive function in older adults. Foot arch integrity will be assessed using the Navicular Drop Test, and gait performance will be evaluated using the 10-Meter Walk Test. Cognitive-motor interaction will be examined through lower extremity reaction time using a light-based system. The study is designed as an observational cross-sectional analysis.
Interventions
OTHERObservational Assessment
This is an observational study with no intervention. Participants will undergo assessments of foot arch structure, gait parameters, and cognitive-motor performance.
Sponsors
Balikesir University
Study design
Observational model
CASE_CROSSOVER
Time perspective
CROSS_SECTIONAL
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
65 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Aged 65 years or older * Able to walk independently for at least 10 meters without assistive devices * Able to understand study procedures and provide informed consent * Having sufficient cognitive and physical capacity to comply with the assessment protocol
Exclusion criteria
* Diagnosed neurological disorders affecting gait and motor control (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis) * Diagnosed dementia or Alzheimer's disease, or Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score below 24 * Severe visual or hearing impairment that cannot be corrected and may affect reaction time testing * History of major lower extremity or spinal surgery within the last 6 months Severe musculoskeletal conditions affecting gait (e.g., advanced osteoarthritis, severe pain, active inflammation, open wounds, or recent fractures in the lower extremity) * Presence of severe balance disorders (e.g., vertigo)
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Gait Speed (m/s) | Baseline (single session) | Gait speed will be assessed using the 10-Meter Walk Test under comfortable walking conditions. Walking speed will be recorded in meters per second (m/s). |
| Cadence (steps/min) | Baseline (single session) | Cadence will be assessed using the 10-Meter Walk Test under comfortable walking conditions. Cadence will be recorded as steps per minute. |
| Step Length (m) | Baseline (single session) | Step length will be assessed using the 10-Meter Walk Test under comfortable walking conditions. Step length will be recorded in meters. |
| Double Support Time (%) | Baseline (single session) | Double support time will be assessed using the 10-Meter Walk Test under comfortable walking conditions. Double support time will be recorded as a percentage of the gait cycle. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lower extremity reaction time | Baseline (single session) | Reaction time will be measured using a visual stimulus-based system (Light Trainer). The time between stimulus onset and foot contact response will be recorded in milliseconds. Multiple trials will be averaged to obtain the final value. |
| Navicular Drop Test (mm) | Baseline (single session) | Medial longitudinal arch mobility will be assessed using the Navicular Drop Test. The vertical displacement of the navicular tuberosity from seated subtalar neutral position to standing position will be measured in millimeters. |
Countries
Turkey (Türkiye)
Contacts
CONTACTEbru Tekin, Lecturer
Outcome results
None listed