Which gait pattern uses a unilateral AD on the unaffected side and follows the sequence AD -> Affected LE -> Unaffected LE?

Which gait pattern uses a unilateral AD on the unaffected side and follows the sequence AD -> Affected LE -> Unaffected LE?

• A. Modified 4-point gait
• B. 3-point gait
• C. 2-point gait
• D. Modified 2-point gait

Answer: (A)

The sequence described reflects a gait pattern that aims to maximize stability by keeping separate points of contact with the ground while moving the limbs in a controlled order. When you use a single assistive device on the unaffected side, you still follow the alternating flow of a four-point approach: you place the device forward for support, swing the affected leg to meet the device, and then step the unaffected leg forward. This adaptation is known as a modified four-point gait. It preserves the principle of moving one limb at a time while maintaining multiple contact points, which is why it’s the best fit for this scenario. In contrast, a three-point gait involves moving the device and the affected limb together to bear weight and then advancing the unaffected leg, which doesn’t match the described order. A two-point pattern moves the opposite leg and device together, not aligning with the distinct, sequential steps shown. The modified two-point gait uses one device with a different sequencing that also doesn’t fit the described order.

The sequence described reflects a gait pattern that aims to maximize stability by keeping separate points of contact with the ground while moving the limbs in a controlled order. When you use a single assistive device on the unaffected side, you still follow the alternating flow of a four-point approach: you place the device forward for support, swing the affected leg to meet the device, and then step the unaffected leg forward. This adaptation is known as a modified four-point gait. It preserves the principle of moving one limb at a time while maintaining multiple contact points, which is why it’s the best fit for this scenario.

In contrast, a three-point gait involves moving the device and the affected limb together to bear weight and then advancing the unaffected leg, which doesn’t match the described order. A two-point pattern moves the opposite leg and device together, not aligning with the distinct, sequential steps shown. The modified two-point gait uses one device with a different sequencing that also doesn’t fit the described order.