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When it comes to physical therapy, there is no “one size fits all”. Depending on your injury and progress, your treatment can vary, and one of those treatments could be gait training.

What is Gait Training Exercise in Physical Therapy?

Gait refers to the way we walk, and gait training is a specific form of physical therapy that helps strengthen and improve your walk and stance. It specifically focuses on your balance and posture as well as adjusting your position and eventually your endurance. Even if you need an adaptive walking device, this form of therapy is created to help you gain more independence and confidence in walking.

When is Gait Rehabilitation Beneficial?

There may be several situations and illness when gait training is needed. Those suffering from brain injuries or neurological disorders can benefit from gait therapy before or after beginning to walk again.

Other conditions that can lead to difficulty with your gait include:

• A broken leg or pelvis
• Strokes
• Muscular dystrophy
• Musculoskeletal disorders and issues

What to Expect from Gait Training with a Physical Therapist

One of the best ways to see full success from gait training is by starting early. It can often be paired with other forms of physical therapy and treatments. You will need to have healthy joints before beginning. The process will focus on specific muscles and often starts with strengthening your muscles by shifting your weight between legs, and other repetitive movements to help build up your muscle strength.

Once you’ve built back your strength, you can then begin focusing on more on task-specific training, such as treadmill training, but the type of training will all be particular to your injury and progress.

Gait Training for Stroke Patients and Individuals with Abnormal Gait

No matter what your reasoning for gait training is, you’ll want to go into knowing the work ahead. The process can be both physically and mentally challenging, but with the right mindset and hard work, the benefits can be life-changing.

Our team of licensed physicians offer a comprehensive range of treatments designed to fix virtually any bone or joint in your body. With six convenient locations throughout Fairfield County, help is never far away. Request an appointment online, or call (203) 337-2600

FAQ About Gait Training and Physical Therapy

What is the gait training method?

The gait training method is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to improve gait patterns, mobility, and balance. It includes strength training, treadmill training, and exercises to help individuals regain their ability to walk after injury, stroke, or neurological conditions.

How to do gait training at home?

Gait training at home can include simple strength training exercises, balance drills, and walking training with or without an assistive device. Overground gait training and supported treadmill training can also be done under the guidance of a physical therapist.

What are the benefits of gait exercise?

Gait exercises help improve gait speed, mobility, and coordination. They also enhance muscle strength, balance, and endurance, making it easier for individuals with stroke or gait abnormalities to regain walking abilities.

What are the 8 phases of gait?

The 8 phases of gait in the gait cycle include initial contact, loading response, mid-stance, terminal stance, pre-swing, initial swing, mid-swing, and terminal swing. Each phase plays a critical role in normal walking and mobility after stroke.

Who needs gait training?

Gait training is beneficial for stroke patients, individuals with neurological disorders, those recovering from leg or pelvis fractures, and older adults with chronic stroke. It is also recommended for anyone with an abnormal gait or mobility impairment.

What is the purpose of a gait trainer?

A gait trainer is an assistive device designed to support individuals with walking difficulties. It helps stroke rehabilitation by improving weight-bearing ability and balance while allowing safe mobility training.

What is the best gait for walking?

The best gait for walking is a symmetrical, steady gait with proper posture and balance. Physical therapy interventions and strength training improve muscle coordination, enhancing gait parameters for better mobility.

What is gait meaning?

Gait refers to the pattern of movement while walking. It involves various phases of the gait cycle and can be affected by conditions such as stroke, musculoskeletal disorders, and neurological impairments.

What is a normal gait exercise?

A normal gait exercise focuses on strengthening the legs, improving balance, and training movement coordination. Exercises like treadmill training, weight shifting, and walking drills can help improve gait speed and performance.