The effects of an exhaustive treadmill protocol on running gait in Army Reserve officer training corps cadets

Abstract

Objective: To analyze limb symmetry and compare biomechanical gait variables previously linked to LEOI, during rested and exhaustive state running, within a single Army ROTC unit. Study Selection: Twenty-one healthy cadets (14 males, 7 females) volunteered from the University's Army ROTC unit to participate in this study Methods: Rested an exhaustive state over-ground running trials were completed prior to and following the completion of a maximal graded exercise test immediately followed by a run to exhaustion on a treadmill. Conclusions: In a healthy ROTC cadet population, changes in gait variables that were previously linked to LEOI were observed following an exhaustive run protocol. These changes demonstrate the extent to which exhaustion may contribute to altering gait mechanics in a manner leading to overuse injuries. Vertical stiffness and changes in vertical stiffness were found to be variable both between and within individuals. Further investigation is needed on the variability of vertical stiffness seen in the current study, especially in regards to development of boney versus muscular related LEOI. Key Words: Military, Gait Analysis, Exhaustive Run