Phases of gait cycle

Definition

The phases of the gait cycle refer to the distinct stages involved in human locomotion, specifically the sequence of movements that occur from initial contact of one foot to the next time that same foot makes contact with the ground again. Understanding these phases is crucial as they highlight the biomechanics of lower extremity movements, including how forces are transmitted through the legs, hips, and core during walking or running.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The gait cycle is typically divided into two main phases: the stance phase (60% of the cycle) and the swing phase (40% of the cycle).
2. The stance phase is further divided into sub-phases: initial contact, loading response, mid-stance, terminal stance, and pre-swing.
3. During walking, both feet are on the ground for a brief moment at 'double support,' which helps to maintain balance.
4. The swing phase includes acceleration, mid-swing, and deceleration, focusing on moving the foot forward to prepare for another step.
5. Analyzing the phases of gait can help identify abnormalities or injuries, allowing for targeted rehabilitation and training strategies.

Review Questions

• Explain how understanding the phases of gait cycle contributes to analyzing lower extremity biomechanics.
  • Understanding the phases of the gait cycle is essential for analyzing lower extremity biomechanics as it reveals how different joints and muscles work together during movement. Each phase highlights specific actions such as loading, stabilizing, and propelling the body forward. By breaking down these phases, professionals can assess mechanics during walking or running, identify potential issues related to injury or inefficiency, and develop effective rehabilitation programs.
• Discuss the significance of identifying abnormalities in the gait cycle and their impact on athletic performance.
  • Identifying abnormalities in the gait cycle is significant because it can reveal underlying biomechanical issues that may lead to injury or decreased athletic performance. For instance, improper mechanics during the stance or swing phases can result in excessive stress on joints or muscles. By assessing these abnormalities, trainers and therapists can implement corrective strategies to optimize movement efficiency and minimize injury risk, ultimately enhancing overall athletic performance.
• Evaluate how changes in gait cycle phases could indicate rehabilitation progress in an injured athlete.
  • Evaluating changes in gait cycle phases can provide valuable insights into an injured athlete's rehabilitation progress. As healing occurs, improvements in stance stability or swing phase efficiency may be observed. For example, an athlete who initially exhibits a shortened swing phase due to pain may gradually restore normal length and rhythm as they recover. Tracking these changes allows therapists to tailor rehabilitation protocols effectively and assess readiness for return to sport based on functional mobility improvements.

Related terms

Stance Phase:

The part of the gait cycle where one foot is in contact with the ground, providing support and stability while the body moves over it.

Swing Phase: The portion of the gait cycle during which a foot is not in contact with the ground, allowing it to move forward in preparation for the next step.

Kinematics:

The study of motion without considering the forces that cause it, which includes analyzing the positions, velocities, and accelerations of body parts during the gait cycle.