Abstract

Introduction:  The gait in people with visual impairment (PWVI) has several variations that affect functionality and health, especially because it affects the skeletal muscle system.

Purpose:   to conduct a literature review to analyze the gait pattern and the implications it has on individuals with low vision and blindness.

Method:   a systematic review was held in the following databases: SportDiscus with full text, PsycINFO, Psychology, and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Source, Google Scholar, Research Gate, PubMed.

Results:   The way of walking is slower in PWVI; they are cautious when walking to protect themselves, although the surrounding is clear. The disadvantage of this variable is that people do not walk in accordance with the optimal level of walking according to their age and height (recommended speed), so there would be no economy of movement; besides, its functionality is also affected.

Conclusions:   The research showed that the PWVI had atypical gait patterns. It was found, in some cases, greater ranges of movement in the involved joints, or on the diminished contrary movements, indicating small or forced movements, unnatural and, therefore, greater stress on muscle and bone. Evaluations in real situations on PWVI are very important to be able to provide them with tools that can help them in their walking and accessibility.

Keywords: Gait; visually impaired; locomotion; blindness; walking