Gait patterns

Question 1

2- point gait

Answer 1

• this is a pattern in which a patient uses two crutches or canes
• the patient ambulates moving the left crutch forward while simultaneously advancing the right LE and vice verse
• each step is one point and a complete cycle is two points

Question 2

3pt gait

Answer 2

• this pattern can be seen with a walker or crutches
• it involves one injured lower extremity that may have decr WB
• the AD is advanced followed by the injured LE and then the uninjured LE
• The AD and each LE are considered separate points

Question 3

4 point gait

Answer 3

• this pattern is very similar to the 2 pt pattern
• the primary difference is that the patient does not move the LE simultaneously with the device, but rather waits and advances the opposite leg once the crutch/cane has been advanced
• this gait pattern may be prescribed when a patient exhibits impaired coordination, balance or significant strength deficits
• each advancement of the crutch or cane as well as the B LE indicates a single point, thus allowing for a 4pt gait pattern

Question 4

swing-to gait

Answer 4

• gait pattern where the patient performs the same sequence as a swing-to gait pattern, however, advances the LE beyond the point of the AD