“A Study to Find Out Normative Reference Values for 10 Meter Walk Test for Normal Healthy Individuals in India- An Observational Study”

Abstract

BACKGROUND: - The 10-meter walk test (10MWT) is a simple assessment to measure locomotor capacity in clinical and research settings. Walking speed is associated with several health-related outcomes. Factors that influence walking ability can be classified into six main physiological subsystems: central nervous system, perceptual system, peripheral nervous system, muscles, bone and/or joints, and energy production and/or delivery.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: - To find out normative value for 10-meter walk test for normal healthy Indian individuals.

METHODOLOGY: - 400 subjects were taken on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Each subject was made to perform the test on a walkway of 10 meter in which the time required to cover the distance was noted. Demonstration about the test measures were done and each subject instructed to walk at a comfortable (Normal Pace) and Fast Pace (As Fast as they could safely without running) for 10 meters. The Calculation of time was done for 6 meters only. 2 meters in the beginning was considered as acceleration phase and at the ending was considered as deceleration phase and hence were not calculated. Speed was calculated from time used to cover distance.

RESULT: - The mean value of gait speed with normal pace in age group 20-30 year is 2.18±

0.33 and maximum 2.80 ± 0.51, normal pace in age group 30- 40 year is 1.97 ± 0.29 march and maximum pace mean value is 2.51 ± 0.44, normal pace in age group 40- 50 year is 1.88 ± 0.31 and maximum pace mean value is 2.34 ± 0.4, normal pace in age group 50- 60 year is 1.90 ± 0.43 and maximum pace mean value is 2.38 ± 0.51, normal pace in age group more than 60 years is 1.50 ± 1.50 & with maximum pace 1.79 ± 1.79.

CONCLUSION: - Present study has established normative reference value for Indian population in age group 20-60 years.