In the initial swing acceleration phase, the ankle is positioned at how many degrees of dorsiflexion?

During the initial swing acceleration phase of gait, the ankle is typically positioned at around 20 degrees of dorsiflexion. This degree of dorsiflexion is essential for adequate clearance of the foot off the ground. It allows for a smooth transition into swing without dragging the toes, which is crucial for maintaining an efficient and fluid gait pattern.

Dorsiflexion in this range helps the lower limb prepare for the advancement of the leg, making it easier to achieve an appropriate toe-off height as the swing progresses. This degree of ankle positioning facilitates optimal biomechanical function, contributing to effective propulsion and improving overall gait efficiency.

Understanding the normal range of motion during different phases of the gait cycle is vital for accurately assessing movement mechanics in clinical settings.