Adjusting Lateral Stepping Control for Navigating Curved Paths

Gait biomechanics is commonly studied in the context of straightforward walking, but real-world walking frequently involves turns and other complex maneuvers. These types of movements challenge lateral balance and can often lead to falls. Understanding how individuals regulate their stepping movements to stay balanced during such tasks is crucial. In this study, 24 adults (12 females, 12 males; average age 25.8 ± 3.5 years) walked along virtual paths of varying widths and curvatures—either straight, gently winding, or sharply winding. For each trial, we analyzed time series data of step widths and lateral positions relative to the path. Using the Goal Equivalent Manifold framework, we assessed how participants adjusted their lateral stepping and corrected step width and lateral position from one step to the next on these different paths. On narrower paths, participants tended to take narrower steps and showed less variability in their lateral position. They achieved this by making more corrections to lateral position with each step while adjusting step width less frequently. On winding paths, participants exhibited narrower and more variable steps. Interestingly, when walking on slowly winding paths, participants focused more on correcting step width by making fewer lateral position corrections, likely to maintain lateral balance. In contrast, on quickly winding paths, they made strong corrections to both step width and lateral position, balancing the two priorities in an effort to maximize maneuverability. These findings offer valuable insights for individuals with gait impairments, who may be at greater risk for falls, by highlighting the strategies used to maintain balance in complex walking environments.