The mechanics of the gait cycle are one of the many things that are impacted when a person sustains an injury. Weight bearing limitations that allow healing or painful walking patterns can alter the position of the body, and may require specific training by a physical therapist. An injury or surgery may result in swelling, pain, and decreased range of motion, all of which impact the gait cycle.
Gait training may include:
Improving the gait cycle after an injury is critical in avoiding additional compensatory deficits on the opposite side, or other parts of the body. A skilled assessment by a physical therapist is an excellent way to collect feedback and strategies for rapid improvements.