College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What is the term for walking with the torso posterior to compensate in terminal swing?

1. Sciatic gait

2. Antalgic gait

3. Glute Max gait

4. Steppage gait

The correct answer is: Glute Max gait

The term for walking with the torso posterior to compensate in terminal swing is known as Glute Max gait. This gait pattern is often observed in individuals who have weakness in the gluteus maximus muscle. When this muscle is weak, especially during the terminal swing phase of walking, a person may lean their torso backward to maintain balance and stability as the leg swings forward. This compensation helps to keep the body over the supporting leg and reduces the risk of falling due to instability. Other terms mentioned, such as sciatic gait, antalgic gait, and steppage gait, refer to different conditions or compensatory mechanisms. Sciatic gait often indicates discomfort associated with sciatica, antalgic gait results from pain leading to a limping posture, and steppage gait is characterized by lifting the leg high to avoid dragging the foot due to weakness of the dorsiflexors. Each of these gait patterns is related to specific impairments and does not involve the posterior leaning of the torso characteristic of Glute Max gait.