Which gait pattern is indicated when partial weight bearing is allowed and uses bilateral AD?

Which gait pattern is indicated when partial weight bearing is allowed and uses bilateral AD?

• A. Modified 3-point gait
• B. 3-point gait
• C. 4-point gait
• D. Modified 4-point gait

Answer: (A)

Gait patterns are chosen based on weight-bearing status of the involved limb and the number of assistive devices being used. When partial weight bearing is allowed on the involved leg and two assistive devices are used, the pattern that fits best is the modified three-point gait. In this approach, you support yourself with both devices and place some weight through the involved leg as permitted, advance the involved leg with that support, and then step the uninvolved leg forward. This differs from a standard three-point gait, where the involved leg is non-weight-bearing, and from four-point patterns, which use an alternating sequence of devices and limbs and are chosen for different balance or weight-bearing needs. The bilateral devices plus partial weight bearing alignment makes modified three-point gait the appropriate choice.

Gait patterns are chosen based on weight-bearing status of the involved limb and the number of assistive devices being used. When partial weight bearing is allowed on the involved leg and two assistive devices are used, the pattern that fits best is the modified three-point gait. In this approach, you support yourself with both devices and place some weight through the involved leg as permitted, advance the involved leg with that support, and then step the uninvolved leg forward. This differs from a standard three-point gait, where the involved leg is non-weight-bearing, and from four-point patterns, which use an alternating sequence of devices and limbs and are chosen for different balance or weight-bearing needs. The bilateral devices plus partial weight bearing alignment makes modified three-point gait the appropriate choice.