What gait is characterized by a lack of lifting the feet off the ground?

The drag-to gait is characterized by a lack of lifting the feet off the ground, which results in the feet being pulled or dragged along the surface. This gait often occurs due to weakness or limitation in the ability to flex the hip or knee, making it difficult for the individual to lift their feet properly when walking. As a result, the toes or front part of the foot may skim the ground rather than clear it during movement.

In contrast, other types of gait listed do not exhibit this specific characteristic. For instance, a double-step gait refers to a pattern where the individual takes two different length steps, which may be due to various neurological or orthopedic conditions. A scissor gait is characterized by legs crossing in front of each other as the person walks, often seen in spastic conditions. Finally, a heel-to-toe gait emphasizes a natural walking rhythm where the heel strikes first and then the toes roll forward, allowing for proper foot clearance off the ground.

Understanding these characteristics helps in identifying gait abnormalities and can guide effective orthotic interventions to improve mobility.