Hemiplegic Gait and Management

Front

What are common gait features in hemiplegic gait?

Back

Reduced hip and knee flexion during swing, possible knee hyperextension during stance, impaired natural hip swing, increased hip flexion during mid-stance, circumduction of the affected leg, hip hike compensating for flat foot landing due to impaired dorsiflexion.

Front

What is the main issue in Type 1 hemiplegic gait?

Back

Foot drop during the swing phase due to weakness or paralysis of dorsiflexors.

Front

How is Type 1 hemiplegic gait managed?

Back

Leaf spring or hinged AFO, spasticity management, and contracture surgery are not needed.

Front

What distinguishes Type 2 hemiplegic gait from Type 1?

Back

True equinus (toe walking) in the stance phase from spasticity and contracture of calf muscles.

Front

What is the main issue in Type 3 hemiplegic gait?

Back

Stiff knee gait due to spasticity or contracture of calf muscles and co-contraction of leg muscles.

Front

How is Type 3 hemiplegic gait managed?

Back

AFO (solid or hinged) based on muscle stability, possible need for muscle-tendon lengthening.

Front

What characterizes Type 4 hemiplegic gait?

Back

Similar to spastic diplegia but affecting one side, with equinus, stiff knee, flexed hip, anterior pelvic tilt, hip adduction, and internal rotation.

Front

What are the impacts and consequences of hemiplegic gait?

Back

Slow and inefficient walking, fatigue, balance issues, risk of calluses and ulcers, limited independence, pain, reduced mobility, social withdrawal.

Front

What is the focus of treatment and management for hemiplegic gait?

Back

Rehabilitation through physical and occupational therapy, medications, bracing, assistive devices, robot-assisted training, and surgery for severe cases.

Front

How is hemiplegic gait managed in adults with mild/moderate deficits?

Back

Intensive mobility training with strengthening tasks, aerobic exercise, and posture challenging walking activities.