We walk every day. That means we walk at a minimum of 365 times a year. Most of us, walk more than once a day in order to do various tasks. We learn this skill typically by the time we are one year old and continue to use it throughout our entire lifespan. That is simply a lot of walking. Walking is a key way in which we get where we need to go. Dr. Joseph Stuto and the staff at Joseph Stuto, DPM in Brooklyn, New York, know the ins and the outs of the way we walk.
Hike, stroll, wander, glide. These are all words we can use to describe how someone walks. Another word that many podiatrists hone in on is the human gait. Gait means, the way we walk. The gait plays a key role in many ankle and foot injuries. Podiatrists see the gait as two different pieces. Stance and swing are the counterparts that make one’s gait.
Stance
Stance is when our feet are on the ground or touching the ground. First, the heel strikes the ground. Next, it rotates and goes forward. This makes it so that the forefoot and toes hit the ground. This action provides balance and stability while we walk.
Swing
Swing is when your foot is no longer touching the ground. It is suspended in mid-air, or moving through the air. While walking, it is that in-between moment when your foot is going forward, or backward in the air.
If you rely too heavily on one foot or the other while walking, it could lead to serious side effects. Your feet and ankles could suffer from this continued strain. An abnormal gait can cause a variety of issues. These issues could include, sprains, fractures, blisters, spurs and other disorders.
If you have experienced pain in your feet or ankles and think it may be due to an abnormal gait it is important that you call us right away. Dr. Stuto and his high trained staff will assist you in diagnosing the issue and provide a thorough treatment and prevention plan. You can call our office at 718-624-7537 or make an appointment online. We look forward to helping you attain a better, healthier you.