Effect of lower limb kinetic on carrying infant by hip seat carrier during high heel gait

Abstract

While common characteristics between wearing of high heel between carrying an infant elevate height of center of gravity, it is not known what interaction effect influence to leg stiffness. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of carrying infant by hip seat carrier on leg mechanics during high heel gait. Adult female (n=9) and infant (n=9) participated as subjects. Infant was positioned on rear of trunk as of wearing 6 cm of high heel shoe. Change of leg mechanics was analyzed with ground reaction force variables (1st peak vertical force [PVF], 2nd PVF, center of pressure [medial-lateral, anterior-posterior]), extrapolated center of mass (XCoM) theta, and leg stiffness. While carrying infant with wearing of high heel more increased 1st PVF, 2nd PVF, and leg stiffness than normal gait, and more decreased medial-lateral center of pressure and XCoM theta. High heel and carrying infant showed potential transformation of posture for securement of stability, which related with mechanism to decrease an impulse type. In conclusion, it is suggest that gait for long time in the condition may accumulate fatigue on leg and increase falling injury, so experts of clinics and exercise rehabilitation should understand the mechanism that could recommend guideline for exercise prescription on several problems.

Keywords: Center of pressure; Extrapolated center of mass; High heel shoe; Infant carrying; Leg stiffness; Lower limb kinetic.

Fig. 1

High heel type with 6 cm.

Fig. 2

Carrying infant during gait. Informed consent was obtained from the subjects for the publication.