When does the stance phase of gait begin and end?

The stance phase of gait is defined as the portion of the walking cycle when the foot is in contact with the ground. It begins with heel strike, which is the initial contact of the foot with the ground, indicating the start of weight acceptance, and it ends at toe off, when the foot leaves the ground to transition into the swing phase.

This definition is critical because it encompasses all phases of weight-bearing and stability that occur during this part of the gait cycle. The stance phase consists of sub-phases such as initial contact (heel strike), loading response, midstance, and terminal stance leading to toe off.

Understanding the specifics of the stance phase is essential for evaluating gait patterns, identifying abnormalities, and developing appropriate interventions in orthotic and prosthetic practices.