The role of tactile feedback from the foot in balance and gait across the lifespan

Tactile feedback from the foot sole has been shown to play an important role in balance and gait. However, feedback is impaired in ageing due to fiber loss and mechanical changes in the skin, leading to increased sway, unsteady gait, and risk of falling. The precise nature of the age-related changes in the feedback signal are currently unknown, and how tactile information is used more generally by the brain to aid in walking and balance is unclear.

Through a combination of experimental and computational work, this project aims to establish how biomechanical and neurological factors, brought about by ageing, change the tactile feedback sent to the brain. Results will pave the way for mitigating and restoring sensory inputs, targeting the main sources of impairment, which are likely to differ from person to person.