At which foot positions are all moments dorsiflexion except?

In the context of human gait and biomechanics, moments refer to the rotational forces acting around a joint, particularly how they influence movement. When analyzing the foot positions during walking, dorsiflexion moments are critically considered.

During the initial contact phase of the gait cycle, the foot is typically in a position that promotes dorsiflexion as the heel strikes the ground. This is necessary for proper shock absorption and to prepare the foot for loading. The flat foot phase, which follows initial contact, temporarily stabilizes the foot, allowing weight transfer while maintaining some degree of dorsiflexion.

However, the choice indicates that not all moments at the positions specified – initial contact and flat foot – are dorsiflexion moments. While initial contact begins the process of dorsiflexion, flat foot can also transition into plantar flexion moments as the foot prepares to propel forward.

In contrast, the other options typically involve more consistent dorsiflexion moments. For example, during the loading response and terminal stance phases, the ankle is actively controlled by the dorsiflexors, maintaining dorsiflexion to support weight and forward propulsion. Similarly, mid stance and toe-off phases involve significant dorsiflexion moments to ensure effective foot positioning for the next