Visual Attention Tracking Alters Inter-Joint Coordination During Dual-Task Walking: Implications for Sports Injury Prevention and Training Optimization

Background: The visual attention tracking task plays a pivotal role in studying posture control and gait regulation. This study aims to explore the effects of visual attention tracking tasks on gait performance in young adults, providing a theoretical basis for gait optimization strategies through dual-task training. Method: Twenty healthy young males were recruited. Participants in the experimental group performed a multi-objective tracking task while walking (dual-task, DT), while the control group performed only walking (single-task, ST). The Vicon motion capture system and gait analysis system were used to collect full-body kinematic and ground reaction force data. The symmetry index of key spatiotemporal parameters and continuous relative phase (CRP) metrics were calculated to assess gait symmetry and inter-joint coordination. Result: The dual-task condition led to significant alterations in gait patterns, characterized by increased stride time and frequency, as evidenced by a longer gait line and greater foot inclination angle. Furthermore, inter-joint coordination was disrupted, demonstrated by elevated magnitude of absolute relative phase values at the hip–knee and knee–ankle joints, alongside more variable continuous relative phase trajectories. Conclusions: Visual attention tracking during walking significantly compromises gait symmetry and inter-joint coordination in young adults, suggesting that divided attention during athletic activities may elevate injury risk and should be considered in training program design.