PAS Gait Analysis & Foot Mechanics Flashcards

Which gait deviation is most commonly caused by ankle plantar flexor contracture?

Answer: Equinus gait (toe-walking)

Plantar flexor contracture prevents full dorsiflexion, forcing the client to walk on the toes in an equinus pattern.

The windlass mechanism of the foot is activated when which structure is dorsiflexed at the metatarsophalangeal joint?

Answer: Great toe (hallux)

Dorsiflexion of the hallux tightens the plantar fascia via the windlass mechanism, raising the medial longitudinal arch and stiffening the foot for propulsion.

A PAS client presents with bilateral flat feet and reports knee pain. Which orthotic feature is MOST appropriate to address medial arch collapse?

Answer: Medial arch support / rearfoot posting

Medial arch support and rearfoot posting control excessive subtalar pronation, reducing the associated medial tibial rotation that contributes to knee pain.

Step width during gait is primarily controlled by which muscles to prevent lateral balance loss?

Answer: Hip abductors

The hip abductors regulate lateral displacement during single-leg stance, controlling step width and preventing contralateral pelvic drop.

During a gait assessment, a PAS specialist notes the client's foot contacts the ground with the entire sole simultaneously. This pattern is called:

Answer: Foot slap / flat-foot contact

Simultaneous full-sole contact (foot slap or flat-foot strike) often indicates dorsiflexor weakness or a compensation for poor heel rocker function.

Which component of gait analysis measures the time each foot spends in contact with the ground as a percentage of the gait cycle?

Answer: Stance time percentage

Stance time percentage quantifies the proportion of the gait cycle spent in ground contact, normally about 60% for each limb at comfortable walking speeds.