Which gait pattern uses bilateral assistive devices and follows the sequence AD -> Affected LE -> AD -> Unaffected LE?

Which gait pattern uses bilateral assistive devices and follows the sequence AD -> Affected LE -> AD -> Unaffected LE?

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

Answer: (B)

Four-point gait uses two assistive devices and moves them one at a time in an alternating pattern with the opposite leg. The sequence is to advance a device, then swing the leg opposite that device, then advance the other device, then swing the remaining leg. The described order—device, affected leg, second device, unaffected leg—fits exactly. Because each device and leg bear weight in turn, there are four contact points per cycle, providing maximum stability, which is why this pattern is used when balance is poor or weight-bearing is limited. Other gait patterns move the devices together or follow different sequences, so they wouldn’t match this exact order.

Four-point gait uses two assistive devices and moves them one at a time in an alternating pattern with the opposite leg. The sequence is to advance a device, then swing the leg opposite that device, then advance the other device, then swing the remaining leg. The described order—device, affected leg, second device, unaffected leg—fits exactly. Because each device and leg bear weight in turn, there are four contact points per cycle, providing maximum stability, which is why this pattern is used when balance is poor or weight-bearing is limited. Other gait patterns move the devices together or follow different sequences, so they wouldn’t match this exact order.