More Than Just a Walk: How OTs Assess Gait and Support Safer Mobility at Home

At Forbes Care, mobility is about more than just moving from A to B — it’s about moving safely, efficiently, and confidently. Whether it’s walking to the mailbox, getting from the bedroom to the kitchen, or stepping out for a short stroll, these everyday tasks rely on a surprisingly complex set of movements that work together to keep us balanced and stable.

When our Occupational Therapists assess someone’s gait (the way they walk), we’re looking at how the body’s natural movement systems are functioning — and where extra support might be needed to maintain safety and independence.

The Six Building Blocks of Safe Walking

Walking may seem automatic, but it’s actually made up of six key movements, known as the classical determinants of gait. Each one plays a role in helping us move efficiently and avoid unnecessary strain or risk:

• Pelvic rotation – helps improve stride length
• Pelvic tilt – reduces vertical bounce for a smoother walk
• Knee flexion during stance – softens the impact of weight-bearing
• Ankle dorsiflexion at heel strike – lifts the foot to clear the ground
• Ankle plantarflexion at toe-off – pushes the body forward with momentum
• Lateral pelvic shift – keeps the centre of gravity steady over the feet

When one or more of these movements is affected — whether due to pain, weakness, fatigue, neurological conditions, or fear of falling — it can lead to:

• A shortened or uneven stride
• Extra strain on the body
• Increased energy use
• Higher risk of falls

How OT Supports Safer Movement

This is where Occupational Therapists step in. We’re not just looking at how someone walks, but why they may be walking differently — and what supports can help.

Whether it’s recommending a walking stick, a four-wheeled walker (rollator), or addressing environmental barriers like rugs or narrow doorways, our focus is always on restoring confidence and rhythm, reducing fall risk, and supporting the person’s movement system — not replacing it.

Mobility aids aren’t one-size-fits-all. Each piece of equipment is chosen and adjusted based on what the body needs to stay safe and conserve energy during everyday activities. In many cases, these tools allow people to move more freely, not less — helping them stay active and independent at home and in the community.

We’re Here to Help

If you or a loved one is noticing changes in walking ability, fatigue when moving around the house, or concerns about falls, a gait assessment with one of our Occupational Therapists can make all the difference. Through Home Care Packages, we can support you with:

• Mobility aid prescription and training
• Home safety assessments
• Fall prevention strategies
• Equipment trials and modifications

At Forbes Care, we’re committed to keeping movement safe, comfortable, and empowering — because every step should support the life you want to live.

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