Understanding the gait cycle for assessing walking problems

What is a Normal Gait cycle

The gait cycle refers to the sequence of movements that occur when a person takes a step while walking. The gait cycle can be divided into two main phases: the Stance phase and the Swing phase.

1. Stance Phase: This phase begins when the foot makes contact with the ground and ends when the foot leaves the ground. The stance phase can be divided into the following sub-phases:

• Heel Strike: This occurs when the heel makes contact with the ground.
• Foot Flat: This occurs when the entire foot is in contact with the ground.
• Midstance: This occurs when the body weight is directly over the supporting leg.
• Heel Off: This occurs when the heel leaves the ground.
• Toe Off/Pushoff: This occurs when the toes leave the ground, and the foot pushes off for the next step.

2. Swing Phase: This phase begins when the foot leaves the ground and ends when it makes contact with the ground again. The swing phase can be divided into the following sub-phases:

• Acceleration: This occurs as the foot swings forward.
• Midswing: This occurs when the foot is directly underneath the body.
• Deceleration: This occurs as the foot prepares to make contact with the ground.

Understanding the gait cycle and its phases is essential for assessing and treating walking problems and mobility issues. Healthcare professionals can use this knowledge to develop treatment plans that address specific gait abnormalities and improve overall gait function.

What are some Abnormal gait cycles

Abnormal gait cycles refer to any deviations from a normal, healthy walking pattern. Walking problems and mobility issues can arise from a variety of causes, including neurological, muscular, or skeletal issues.

Some common abnormal gait cycles include:

• Antalgic gait: This is a limp that results from pain, often in the hip, knee, or ankle. People with an antalgic gait will avoid putting weight on the affected leg, which can lead to a shortened stride and a noticeable limp.
• Ataxic gait: This is a staggering or unsteady gait that can be caused by neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or stroke. People with an ataxic gait may have difficulty with balance, coordination, and maintaining a consistent walking pace.
• Steppage gait: This is a gait pattern in which the foot is lifted higher than normal during the swing phase of the gait cycle. People with a steppage gait may have weakness or paralysis in the muscles that lift the foot, which can lead to tripping or stumbling.
• Trendelenburg gait: This is a gait pattern in which the pelvis drops on the opposite side of the leg that is lifted during the swing phase. People with a Trendelenburg gait may have weakness in the hip abductor muscles, which are responsible for keeping the pelvis level during walking.
• Parkinsonian gait: This is a shuffling gait pattern that can be seen in people with Parkinson’s disease. People with a Parkinsonian gait may take small, shuffling steps and have difficulty initiating movement.

Problems that can arise from an abnormal gait

Walking problems and mobility issues can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, making it difficult to perform daily tasks or engage in physical activity.

Here are some ways in which they can affect a person:

• Physical health: Walking problems can lead to decreased physical activity and exercise, which can result in decreased muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility. This can further contribute to a decrease in overall physical health and increase the risk of chronic health conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
• Psychological health: Mobility issues can also lead to psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation. A person may feel limited in their ability to participate in social activities, which can further exacerbate these feelings.
• Independence: Walking problems can also limit a person’s ability to perform daily activities independently, such as shopping, cooking, and cleaning. This can lead to a loss of independence and a decrease in overall quality of life.
• Employment: Mobility issues can also impact a person’s ability to work, leading to a decrease in financial independence and overall quality of life.
• Safety: Walking problems can also increase the risk of falls and other accidents, leading to injury and decreased quality of life.

Physiotherapy is often the first line of treatment for gait and mobility problems. A physiotherapist can develop a customized exercise program that can help to improve strength, balance, coordination, and range of motion. Treatment for abnormal gait cycles and mobility issues will depend on the underlying cause, but may include physiotherapy, assistive devices such as crutches, canes or walkers, or medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Overall, walking problems and mobility issues can have a profound impact on a person’s physical, psychological, and social well-being, leading to a decrease in overall quality of life. It is important for individuals to seek treatment and support to help manage these issues and maintain their independence and well-being.