What is the ankle position at heel off (terminal stance)?

During the terminal stance phase of gait, which includes heel off, the ankle position typically reaches approximately 15 degrees of dorsiflexion. This position is essential as it allows for proper weight transfer from the heel to the forefoot, facilitating the push-off that occurs later in the gait cycle. The dorsiflexion of the ankle at this stage keeps the body’s center of mass balanced while providing stability and preparing the foot for propulsion.

This amount of dorsiflexion is important for maintaining an effective gait pattern and reducing the risk of injuries associated with inadequate ankle movement. Maintaining 15 degrees of dorsiflexion supports optimal loading of the Achilles tendon and efficient use of the calf muscles for forward propulsion.

Other positions such as 3 degrees of dorsiflexion would not provide adequate leverage for effective push-off, while 20 degrees of plantarflexion would not be biomechanically appropriate at this phase of the gait cycle. Full extension would also not represent the dynamic nature of the ankle during terminal stance, where some degree of dorsiflexion is crucial for maintaining balance and preparing for the next phase of the gait. Thus, approximately 15 degrees of dorsiflexion at heel off is the biomechanically correct and essential position