Predictive biomechanics for modelling gait stability & falls prediction
Join our study and help us better understand gait stability and prevent falls through early detection of instability.
About this project
Falls are a leading cause of injury-related hospitalisations and deaths among older adults, significantly impacting independence, quality of life and healthcare systems globally. The emotional and financial burden is substantial, with fall-related injuries costing billions each year in medical care, rehabilitation and long-term support.
Despite decades of research, predicting who is at risk of falling and when they are at risk remains a major challenge.
This project aims to address this challenge by developing a predictive model of gait stability that combines motion capture and wearable sensor data with advanced machine learning techniques to detect early signs of instability.
This research is led by the Institute for Health and Sport (IHES) at Victoria University, in collaboration with The University of Melbourne and Deakin University.
What is involved?
Participants in this study will be asked to:
- Walk at their normal pace on a treadmill for 5 minutes (baseline walking).
- Experience gentle, unexpected balance challenges, such as slip- or trip-like events during walking.
- Wear small sensors and reflective markers on the body to record movement and muscle activity.
Who can take part?
We’re currently recruiting male and female volunteers for this study, which will be conducted in our Biomechanics Lab at the Footscray Park campus. Participation involves a single session lasting approximately 2 hours.
You may be eligible if you:
- are 18—35 or 65—80 years old
- can stand and walk for at least 5 minutes without aid
- have no recent musculoskeletal injuries or surgeries (within the last 12 months)
- have a body mass index (BMI) under 30
- are not currently pregnant.
Join our research project
Participants will receive a $50 e-gift card as a thank you for their time and contribution.
