Range of motion changes in upper and lower limb joints according to locomotion speed in healthy adults: A cross-sectional observational study

It is imperative to consider the coordination between the upper and lower extremities during locomotion, as this is a crucial aspect of achieving efficient locomotion. The present cross-sectional observational study aimed to analyze the three-dimensional kinematic characteristics of the upper and lower extremity joints in healthy adults as a function of locomotion speed. From September 2023 to March 2024, 155 healthy adults without neuromusculoskeletal disorders were enrolled in the study. The measurement of joint range of motion and angular velocity was conducted utilizing a 16-channel three-dimensional motion analysis system (iSen) under conditions of normal locomotion (100%), fast locomotion (130%), and running (150%). One-way repeated measures analysis of variance was performed to compare joint movements according to locomotion speed, with Bonferroni post hoc analysis (α = 0.0167). A total of 155 healthy adults (age: 24.3 ± 2.8 years; 82 males, 73 females) participated. A significant increase in joint range of motion was observed with increasing locomotion speed in all joints except pelvic transverse plane rotation ( P < .05). Changes in the coordinated movements of the upper and lower extremities according to locomotion speed are thought to be an active strategy for locomotion stability and efficiency.