Millions of people across the world use their feet to stay mobile. They use them to bike, hike, run, leap and walk. It is a very important means of transportation that people have been using for thousands of years. Without the ability to walk a person is severely limited in their daily lives. Many people who are unable to walk have to seek assistance from others. So how does walking work? 
The way we walk is also called our gait. Our gait is made up of two essential parts that come together and make one fluid motion. This motion is also known as biomechanics. The two parts that make up our gait are stance and swing.
Stance is when our feet are firmly planted on the ground. The heel first strikes the ground. Next, it rotates and moves forward. The forefoot and toes then hit the ground. This action gives us stability and balance.
The second piece of our gait is known as the swing. The swing is when your foot is no longer touching the ground. It is essentially the point when your foot is in midair and moving forward. It then comes back down to bring you into the stance position.
All together our stance and our swing make up out gait. Everyone has a different gait. Some swing their hips more, while others are more rigid in their walk. Some people have a limp and others use orthotics to help stabilize them. Not everyone’s gait is made the same. Sometimes if a person relies too heavily on one foot as opposed to the other, certain foot and ankle problems can occur. It is important to have a gait that is even and equal overall. If the gait is not even and equal, other parts of the body such as the knees, hips and back, will begin to hurt and suffer. You could also suffer from bunions, spurs, and other deformities.
If you think that you have an unusual gait, it is important to call a podiatrist right away so that they can examine and better assist you. Dr. Andrew H. Cohen of Mid-Michigan Foot & Ankle Center located in Saginaw and Bay City, Michigan can help you get your gait straight. Call 989-790-8009 or make an appointment online today.