Which gait involves advancing crutches and the injured limb as one unit?

The three-point gait is characterized by the simultaneous advancement of the crutches and the injured limb as a single unit. This gait is often utilized for patients who have limited weight-bearing ability on one limb due to an injury, surgery, or other conditions.

In this gait pattern, the crutches are placed forward, and then the affected limb is moved up to the level of the crutches. This method helps to provide stability and balance as the patient shifts their weight between the crutches and the non-injured limb, which is crucial for maintaining control while walking.

This gait allows for effective mobility while minimizing stress on the injured limb, making it a fundamental technique taught to patients recovering from lower limb injuries. The coordination required in the three-point gait promotes muscle strength and aids in the rehabilitation process, which is essential for achieving a safe and functional walking pattern.

Understanding this gait is important for orthopaedic technologists as they assist in patient care and education, ensuring that proper weight-bearing alignment and safety measures are followed during recovery.