Footwear and illumination modulate muscle cocontraction strategies and joint work redistribution during stair-to-ground transition

Journal of Applied Physiology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Yufan Xu, Chengyuan Zhu, Dong Sun, Xiaoyu Jian, Zifan XIA, Yihan Qian, Linxiao Shen, Yang Song, Xuanzhen Cen, József Sárosi, I. B. Bíró, Yaodong Gu
DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01230.2025
Cited by: 1
References: 56

Abstract

This study reveals that footwear impacts lower limb biomechanics more significantly than illumination during the stair-to-ground transition. Although dim light alters knee stability and hip work, footwear cushioning fundamentally redistributes joint moments and negative work. Notably, barefoot conditions trigger higher muscle coactivation and ankle loading to manage impact. These findings highlight how environmental and equipment factors interact, offering critical insights for improving footwear design and motor control strategies during high-risk locomotor transitions.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Lower Extremity Biomechanics and Pathologies Balance Gait and Falls Prevention Sports Performance and Training

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Applied Physiology
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
140
Issue
4
Pages
935–945
Publication date
2 March 2026
Language
EN