Authors:
Diamond N, Downs J, Morris S
Authors notes:
Gait and Posture. 2014;39(1):547-552
Keywords:
Developmental coordination disorder, Gait, Joint power, Running, Walking
Abstract:
Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) often have difficulties running.
This study compared strategies of propulsion and power generation at the ankle during late stance/early swing in both walking and running in children with and without DCD.
The children with DCD ran slower than the TD children.
Adjusting for speed, those with DCD had smaller propulsion strategy values during jogging and sprinting, explained by reduced ankle power generation at push off (A2) and greater hip flexor power generation at pull off (H3).
Similar findings were observed during sprinting.
Children with DCD ran with a slow and less efficient running style compared with TD children.
Physiotherapy targeting running-specific needs in relation to ankle muscle strength and coordination could enable more participation in running activities.