Journal of Obesity & Weight Loss Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

Obesity negatively impacts motor function leading to an increase in fall risk. Massive weight loss improves some aspects of gait on flat ground. However, we have little information about whether gait changes during flat ground walking and during more complex motor tasks beyond flat ground walking (e.g., crossing obstacles). The purpose of this study was to examine how massive weight loss after Roux-en-Y bariatric surgery influences gait during flat ground walking and obstacle crossing one year post bariatric surgery. Nineteen adult females walked under 5conditions: Initial baseline walking on flat ground, crossing 3 obstacle heights and final baseline walking on flat ground for a total of 25 trials. Spatio-temporal gait parameters were collected simultaneously using a gait carpet and with body-worn sensors. Gait improved post-surgery with the strongest effect observed for double limb support time during both flat ground walking (p<.001) and obstacle crossing (p<.001). The reduction in body mass index was correlated with improved gait during both walking conditions (ps<.01). As expected, an increase in obstacle height altered gait (ps<.01). Improved gait post-surgery was more pronounced during the highest obstacle condition (ps<.01). Massive weight loss results in improved spatio-temporal gait patterns during flat ground walking. Practice during obstacle crossing may facilitate improved gait. Examining how massive weight loss affects spatio-temporal gait may help create ways to minimize falls for adults with obesity and to encourage a more active lifestyle.

Biography

Email: simvgill@bu.edu