Test 2 Review Flashcards
What is the role of motor control and CNS maturation in gait development?
Adequate motor control and CNS maturation are critical for gait initiation, with the development of central pattern generators supporting basic locomotion.
Why is adequate ROM and strength important for gait?
Sufficient range of motion and strength in the lower extremities are necessary for effective movement during the gait cycle.
How does bone structure and composition affect gait?
Proper bone alignment and composition facilitate balance and joint movement during walking.
What role does sensation and pelvic stabilization play in gait?
Sensation and muscle activation, especially around the pelvis, are necessary for maintaining stability and posture during gait.
What are the key characteristics of mature gait in children aged 3+?
Characteristics include
- increased single-leg stance time
- higher walking velocity
- decreased cadence
- increased step length
What are the characteristics of immature gait in children aged 2.5 and younger?
Immature gait has…
- reduced postural stability
- shorter single-leg stance time
- rapid cadence
- wide base of support
Describe skeletal alignment changes in newborns.
Newborns typically exhibit genu varum (bowlegs) due to intrauterine positioning.
What skeletal alignment changes occur at 6 months?
At 6 months, the legs begin to straighten, showing minimal genu varum.
How does skeletal alignment develop by 18 months?
By 18 months, or 6 months after walking independently, the legs are generally straight.
What alignment changes are seen in children aged 2.5 years to 4-6 years?
Between 2.5 and 4-6 years, genu valgum (knock-knees) develops, then alignment becomes straighter.
How do body structure and proportions change during gait development?
Body proportions change, with limb length increasing relative to head size, improving balance and stability.
What changes occur in base of support and stride length as gait matures?
The base of support narrows, and stride length increases as the child grows, leading to a more mature walking pattern.
How does the center of mass (COM) change from newborn to older child?
COM is higher in the trunk for newborns and toddlers, lowering as the child grows, improving stability.
What are the characteristics of gait from birth to 9 months?
Gait from birth to 9 months involves
- reciprocal kicking
- foot-to-foot contact
- changes in body proportions
What are the gait characteristics observed between 9-15 months?
- wide BOS
- high COM
- small steps
- increased cadence
- muscle activity focused on stability
What are the changes in body structure and alignment at 18-24 months?
At 18-24 months, legs are straight, hip abduction decreases, heel strike becomes consistent, and dynamic balance improves.
Describe the gait characteristics in children aged 3-3.5 years.
Tibiofemoral angle becomes valgus, femoral anteversion decreases, and gait pattern matures but remains narrow.
What are the key gait characteristics in children aged 6-7 years?
Gait is fully mature by age 7, with neutral tibiofemoral angles, decreased calcaneal eversion, and advanced postural control.
How does postural control develop in relation to gait?
Postural control develops with righting reactions and refined balance, supporting stable walking.
What is the role of visual and vestibular systems in gait development?
Visual and vestibular systems mature by age 10-12, enhancing balance and coordination during gait.
At what age is gait considered fully mature?
Gait is considered fully mature around 7 years of age.
What changes in muscle activity occur at 9-12 months during gait development?
Muscle activity increases in the lower extremities to support weight-bearing and postural control during walking.
What is the impact of body fat to muscle ratio on beginner walkers?
Beginner walkers have a higher body fat to muscle ratio, which impacts their ability to develop efficient gait patterns.
How does dynamic balance influence gait development in early walkers?
Dynamic balance is crucial for making postural adjustments during walking, improving as the child gains strength.