marked weakness of the left lower extremity com- pared with the right lower extremity. Using what you have just learned about the phases and events of gait, answer the following questions regarding Jack’s expected gait pattern.
J 1. Are step lengths likely to be equal? Why or why not?
2. Which step length is more likely to be longer? Explain your answer.
3. Which stance phase, right or left, is likely to be longer?
4. What strategies can Jack use to increase his stabil- ity and reduce his risk for falls?
ack has experienced a right cerebrovascular acci- dent with a resultant left-sided hemiplegia with
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Consider the possible reasons for the following situations occurring during a gait cycle: A. Step width measures 14 cm B. Right step length measures 50 cm, and left step length measures 72 cm
C. Stride length measures 80 cm, and step lengths are equal
2. Where in the gait cycle must the foot function as a pliable adapter to surfaces? Where in the gait cycle must the foot function as a rigid lever?
3. Compare the percentage of time spent in stance phase versus swing phase in a gait cycle. Speculate as to why these phases are not equal. What would be more likely to happen if they were equal or the percentages reversed?
