Self-check of gait at home

Gait self-examination at home

The Seven-Step Observation Method

Parents can detect their children's gait problems at an early stage through simple self-examination.

01

Forward gait detection

The child walks barefoot or in thin socks on a hard and flat surface naturally. The parent is observing the child while lowering their gaze, paying close attention to whether there are any abnormal rotations of the feet (such as inward or outward rotation) during the walk, and whether there are any unnatural rotations in the ankle area.

02

Leg shape detection

Have the child stand barefoot on a hard and flat surface, with the knees naturally touching each other. Observe whether the ankles on both sides can closely fit and come together; at the same time, check if the angle between the left and right thighs and calves is vertical, and whether the two knees are of the same height and located at the centerline of the body.

03

Foot arch development assessment

Guide the child to stand barefoot on a hard and flat surface. First, observe the development of the arches visually. Then, touch and feel to check if the height of the arches conforms to the standards of children's development. At the same time, check if the arches on both sides are symmetrical and have the same height.

04

Inspection of worn-out sole of shoes

Carefully inspect the shoes the child wears on a daily basis, observing whether there are any local uneven wear or abnormal wear on the sole. At the same time, compare the soles of the left and right feet to check if the worn areas and degrees are uniform and consistent.

05

Walking posture detection

Let the child walk barefoot or in thin socks on a hard and flat surface naturally. The parent should stand behind the child and observe, checking if there are any cases of hip twisting or hip deviation during the walking process. At the same time, confirm whether the position of the hip and the shoulder is balanced and coordinated.

06

Backside gait detection

Let the child walk barefoot or in thin socks on a hard and flat surface naturally. The parent should observe from behind the child, paying attention to whether the angles at which both feet touch the ground are symmetrical and consistent, and whether the connection points between the heel, ankle and lower leg always maintain a vertical force-bearing state.

07

Observation of Daily Physical Activity Performance

Observe the actual performance of the child in basic movements such as walking, running, and jumping, compare it with the regular physical ability levels of children of the same age, and pay attention to whether the child has any abnormal situations during the movement process, such as prone to falling, body imbalance, or uncoordinated movements.