This research was designed to validate a simple, low-cost push-off retraining protocol in healthy participants based on task-specific training that could be implemented during overground walking in the clinic. 

Bertrand-Charette M, Nielsen JB, Bouyer LJ (2021) A simple, clinically applicable motor learning protocol to increase push-off during gait: A proof-of-concept. PLoS ONE 16(1): e0245523.

KEY POINTS: MOTOR LEARNING & GAIT

• Gait control is often compromised after neural injury.
• Error-based motor learning protocols can improve overall walking ability in neurologically impaired populations.
• Experimentally-controlled error-based motor learning is a potential protocol for training motor recovery after injury.

Reduced push-off force is a prevalent gait impairment, which correlates to a reduced gait speed and limits mobility and activities of daily living.

• Applying controlled perturbations during gait in the laboratory setting can induce...