Understanding Gait and Its Analysis

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Questions and Answers

What is the main purpose of the terminal swing phase in the gait cycle?

Preparation for initial contact

Preparation for toe-off

Preparation for heel strike (correct)

Preparation for loading response

During which interval are both feet in contact with the ground?

Swing phase

Terminal swing

Initial double stance (correct)

Single limb support

Which interval is characterized by only one foot being in contact with the ground?

Terminal stance (correct)

Loading response

Swing phase

Double limb support

What percentage of the gait cycle does the swing phase occupy?

40% Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes terminal double stance from other phases?

One foot is in pre-swing while the other is in loading response Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial phase of the stance phase called?

Initial contact Signup and view all the answers

During which phase does the body’s center of mass move directly over the foot?

Mid stance Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the gait cycle does the terminal stance phase occupy?

30% - 50% Signup and view all the answers

Which phase marks the beginning of the non-weight bearing period?

Initial swing Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during the loading response phase?

Body weight is completely transferred to the stance limb. Signup and view all the answers

How many phases are there in the swing phase of the gait cycle?

Three Signup and view all the answers

At what percentage of the gait cycle does the pre-swing phase occur?

50% - 60% Signup and view all the answers

What phase follows immediately after the loading response in the stance phase?

Mid stance Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of the stance phase in the gait cycle?

Foot contact with the ground is maintained during this phase. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following contributes to the definition of a normal gait?

It results from the integrated action of bones, muscles, and the nervous system. Signup and view all the answers

During a walking cycle, when does the same heel contact the ground for a second time?

At the completion of the gait cycle. Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of total body weight does the HAT (head, arms, trunk) constitute?

75% Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the swing phase in the gait cycle?

It is responsible for creating a new step forward. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a prerequisite for normal gait?

The ability to perform complex dance moves. Signup and view all the answers

What defines pathological gait?

Any defect in the components supporting normal gait. Signup and view all the answers

The gait cycle typically lasts for how many seconds at normal adult walking speeds?

1 second Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What is Gait?

Gait is the medical term for human locomotion, or how we walk.
Each person has a unique gait pattern.
Gait can be significantly affected by injury or disease.
Gait analysis can help therapists identify specific weaknesses and create personalized rehabilitation programs.

Definition of Normal Gait

Physiological Definition: Gait relies on a complex interplay between bones, muscles, and the nervous system (including central and peripheral components). The level of integration between these systems determines gait patterns. Any dysfunction in these components can lead to abnormal gait.
Mechanical Definition: Gait is a form of bipedal locomotion where one leg supports and propels the body while the other swings forward. It involves rhythmic movements of the arms, legs, and trunk to achieve forward motion.

Prerequisites for Gait

Ability to maintain an upright posture, balancing the head, arms, and trunk (HAT) against gravity.
Ability to maintain balance in both static and dynamic conditions.
Ability to control foot movement to achieve safe ground clearance and smooth heel contact when initiating a new step.
HAT constitutes 75% of total body weight.

Phases of the Gait Cycle

Gait Cycle: Describes the entire sequence of movements during walking, from initial heel contact to the same heel touching the ground again.
Each gait cycle lasts approximately 1 second and covers 1.4 meters at normal walking speeds.
Each extremity goes through two phases: a single stance phase and a single swing phase.

Stance Phase

The period when any part of the foot is in contact with the ground (60% of gait cycle).
Also known as the supporting phase or weight-bearing phase.

Subphases of Stance:

Initial Contact (Heel Strike): The instant the heel of the leading limb touches the ground (0%-2% of gait cycle).
Loading Response (Flat Foot): The period when the foot makes full contact with the ground, transferring body weight onto the stance limb (2%-10% of gait cycle).
Mid Stance: The first half of single limb support, where the body weight moves over the forefoot (10%-30% of gait cycle).
Terminal Stance (Heel Off): The second half of single limb support, beginning when the heel rises from the ground and ending with the contralateral foot contacting the ground (30%-50% of gait cycle).
Pre-Swing (Toe Off): The moment when only the toe remains in contact with the ground (50%-60% of gait cycle). This is the terminal double stance interval.

Swing Phase

The period when the foot is not in contact with the ground (40% of gait cycle).
Also known as the non-weight-bearing period.

Subphases of Swing:

Initial Swing (Acceleration): From toe-off to mid-swing (60%-73% of gait cycle).
Mid Swing: The reference limb passes directly under the body, reaching vertical tibial position (73%-87% of gait cycle).
Terminal Swing (Deceleration): The period from the end of mid-swing to just before initial contact, with the knee extending in preparation for heel strike (87%-100% of gait cycle).

Intervals of the Gait Cycle

Double Limb Support (Initial and Terminal):
- Initial Double Stance (IDS): Both feet are on the ground, one in initial contact/loading response and the other in pre-swing.
- Terminal Double Stance (TDS): The ipsilateral foot is in preswing, and the contralateral foot is in initial contact/loading response.
Single Limb Support (SLS): Only one foot is on the ground (mid stance and terminal stance). This corresponds to the swing phase of the other limb. Takes up to 40% of the gait cycle.
Swing Phase: One foot is not in contact with the ground. Takes up to 40% of the gait cycle.

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Description

This quiz explores the concept of gait, including its definitions, importance in human locomotion, and the factors affecting it. Learn about the physiological and mechanical aspects of normal gait patterns, and how gait analysis can aid in rehabilitation. Test your knowledge on the prerequisites and implications of gait in health and therapy.