How Gait Training Enhances Mobility - MS Thera Cure

Gait training is a type of physical therapy that helps improve your ability to stand and walk. It is often recommended for people who have had an illness or injury that affects their mobility, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or joint replacement. Gait training can help you gain independence in walking, even if you need an adaptive device such as a cane, walker, or crutches.

Gait training exercises focus on improving your walking pattern, helping restore a normal, efficient gait. It enhances balance and builds strength, ultimately promoting better mobility and reducing the risk of falls. This is crucial in improving quality of life and providing independence in mobility.

Some of the benefits of gait training include:

- Increasing muscle strength and mobility in the legs

- Improving balance and coordination

- Increasing cardiovascular fitness

- Improving joint range of motion and preventing stiffness

- Reducing pain and inflammation

- Boosting confidence and self-esteem

Gait training exercises vary depending on your individual needs and goals. Your physical therapist will assess your gait and tailor an exercise program that suits you.

Some examples of gait training exercises are:

Seated marching: This basic exercise can be done from any seated position. Start by lifting your affected leg up into your chest, and then place it back down onto the floor. Repeat with the other leg. This helps improve hip and knee flexion, which are essential for walking.

Standing weight shifts: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a stable surface for support. Shift your weight from one leg to the other, keeping your knees slightly bent. This helps improve balance and stability.

Heel raises: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a stable surface for support. Lift your heels off the ground and balance on your toes for a few seconds, then lower them back down. This helps strengthen your calf muscles and improve ankle dorsiflexion, which are important for pushing off the ground while walking.

Step-ups: Stand in front of a low step or platform and hold onto a stable surface for support. Step up with one foot, then bring the other foot up to meet it. Step down with the same foot, then bring the other foot down to meet it. Repeat with the other foot. This helps improve leg strength and coordination.

Walking practice: Practice walking with or without an assistive device, depending on your level of ability. Your physical therapist will guide you on how to use the device properly and safely. They will also give you feedback on your gait mechanics and correct any errors or compensations.

At MS TheraCure, we offer gait training as part of our comprehensive physical therapy services. Our experienced and compassionate therapists will work with you to help you achieve your mobility goals and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.