PAS Gait Analysis & Foot Mechanics Flashcards

Which phase of the gait cycle places the greatest demand on the plantar flexors for forward propulsion?

Answer: Terminal stance / toe-off

Terminal stance and toe-off require maximal plantar flexor activity to propel the body forward.

Excessive pronation of the subtalar joint during gait most commonly contributes to which postural deviation?

Answer: Medial tibial rotation and genu valgum

Excessive subtalar pronation internally rotates the tibia, which transmits upward and contributes to medial knee collapse (genu valgum).

A PAS specialist observes a client with a 'Trendelenburg gait.' Which muscle is the primary weakness responsible for this pattern?

Answer: Gluteus medius

Weakness of the gluteus medius allows the contralateral pelvis to drop during single-leg stance, producing a Trendelenburg gait.

Which foot type is most associated with a rigid, supinated arch and increased lateral forefoot loading during gait?

Answer: Pes cavus

Pes cavus (high arch) is a rigid, supinated foot structure that concentrates pressure on the lateral forefoot and heel.

During normal gait, what is the typical cadence range for a healthy adult?

Answer: 100–120 steps per minute

Healthy adult cadence typically ranges from 100 to 120 steps per minute during comfortable self-selected walking.

A client who walks with excessive anterior trunk lean during gait most likely has weakness in which muscle group?

Answer: Hip extensors

Weak hip extensors cause the trunk to lean anteriorly to shift the ground reaction force in front of the hip, compensating for insufficient extension torque.