Teaching Swing To Gait and Swing through Gait Procedure

Equipment
1. Properly fitted crutches
2. Regular, hard soled street shoes

Procedure
1. Explain the rationale for the procedure the client.
a. These gaits are usually performed when the client’s lower extremities are paralyzed.
b. The client may use braces.

2. Demonstrate the crutch-foot sequences to the client
a. Move both crutches forward
b. Swing to gait: left and swing the body to the crutches
c. Swing through gait: left and swing the body past the crutches
d. Bring crutches informed of the body and repeat.

3. Help client practice the gait

4. Assess the client’s progress and correct any mistakes as they occur.