When the four gaits listed below are compared, which is the most stable of the crutch gaits?

Question

a. Four-point gait
b. Three-point gait
c. Two-point gait
d. Swing-to gait

Answer 1

A
Four-point gait is the most stable of crutch gaits because it provides at least three points of support at all times. The patient must be able to bear weight on both legs. Each leg is moved alternately with each opposing crutch, so that three points of support are on the floor all the time. This gait is often used when the patient has some form of paralysis, such as for spastic children with cerebral palsy. This is less stable than four-point gait because it requires the patient to bear all weight on one foot. Weight is borne on the uninvolved leg and then on both crutches. The affected leg does not touch the ground during the early phase of three-point gait. This gait may be useful for patients with a broken leg or a sprained ankle. This is less stable than four-point gait because it requires at least partial weight bearing on each foot. It is faster than four-point gait and requires better balance because only two points support the body at any one time. This is the easier of the two swinging gaits. It is less stable than four-point gait because it requires the ability to partially bear body weight on both legs. This gait is frequently used by patients whose lower extremities are paralyzed, or who wear weight-supporting braces on their legs.