Foot clearance matters
During swing, the foot passes close to the ground. Small changes in ankle control, hip motion or timing can affect clearance.
Variability also matters
A person may have an acceptable average step but occasional low-clearance steps. This is why step-to-step variability is relevant.
When to seek assessment
New foot drop, unilateral weakness, numbness, repeated falls or sudden balance problems deserve timely clinical evaluation.
Established evidenceFactual statements are grounded in the publications listed below.
KŌMØ perspectiveKŌMØ favours a multidimensional, longitudinal reading of mobility.
LimitsThis page is educational and does not replace medical assessment when a change is recent, marked or accompanied by other symptoms.
References
- Barrett RS, et al. A systematic review of the effect of ageing and falls history on minimum foot clearance characteristics during level walking. Gait Posture. 2010.
- Brach JS, et al. Gait variability in older adults: a structured review of testing protocol and clinimetric properties. Gait Posture. 2011.
- Herssens N, et al. Do spatiotemporal parameters and gait variability differ across the lifespan of healthy adults? A systematic review. Gait Posture. 2018.