Effect of Upper Limbs on Walking

Abstract

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate whether or not the upper limbs influence the stepping test or circuit walking. [Subjects] The subjects were 17 healthy women, average age: 19.6 ± 7.9 years. [Method] We measured circuit times at fastest walking speeds in clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, and similarly the distance of one-minute walking. In the stepping test with the eyes closed, we measured rotation angle and direction with the arms free and with the arms fixed at the sides. [Results] In circuit walking, the anti-clockwise direction time was significantly shorter than that of the clockwise direction, and one-minute walking time was longer. In the stepping test, compared to the `arms fixed' condition, the body rotation angle was significantly smaller under the `arms free' condition. [Conclusion] We infer from these results that walking is influenced by upper limb movements, suggesting the necessity of physical therapy which involves the trunk and the upper and lower limbs.