Gait & Stair Training Flashcards
Define gait cycle
- the period that begins with the initial contact of an extremity & lasts until that extremity strikes the ground again
- contains a stance & swing phase for each extremity
Define step length
- the forward linear distance between the occurrence of one point in the gait cycle of one foot & the recurrence of that point by the same extremity
- example:
Define stride length
- the linear distance between the occurrence of one point in the gait cycle of one foot & the recurrence of that point by the same extremity
- example: one heel strike of the left foot to the next heel strike of the left foot
Define stance time
- the period that an extremity is in contact with the ground in stance phase
Define single limb support time
- the period when only one extremity is in contact with the ground
Define double limb support time
- the period when both feet are in contact with the ground in a supportive manner
Define swing time
- the period that an extremity is off the ground during the swing phase of that extremity
Define cadence
- the number of steps taken in a given unit of time usually measured in steps per second or steps per minute
Define speed
- the rate at which an individual’s locomotion covers a specified distance
- everyone has a natural, comfortable walking speed that tends to be efficient for that person
What swing & stance phases are coupled together
- Heel strike coupled with pre-swing
- Loading response coupled with toe-off
- Mid-stance coupled with mid-swing
- Terminal stance coupled with terminal swing
What body structure/function changes effect locomotion
- musculoskeletal changes
- neuromuscular changes
- cardiopulmonary changes
- integumentary changes
How does an assistive device help with pain
- decreased weight bearing on the painful side
- distribution of force over a larger surface area
- improved joint stability
How does an assistive device help with weakness
- increased base of support
- redirection or manipulation of the line of action of forces, especially external forces
How does an assistive device help with limited PROM
- redirection of line of forces
- stabilization of uninvolved joints
How does an assistive device help with decreased endurance
- improved efficiency of movement
How does an assistive device help with impaired balance
- increased base of support
How does an assistive device help with impaired motor control
- increased base of support
- increased weight bearing
How does an assistive device help with fear of falling
- increased base of support
What are the goals of assistive devices
- maximize level of functional independence
- enhance body functions
- assist with fracture healing
- provide security & safety
- enhance function with the least expenditure of energy
Define NWB (non-weight bearing)
- foot does not touch ground