Which of the following best defines the heel strike phase of gait?

The heel strike phase of gait is defined as the moment of initial contact with the ground. This phase marks the beginning of the stance phase in the gait cycle when the heel first touches the ground during walking. It is a critical point as it influences subsequent phases of gait, including the loading response, where the weight shifts onto the foot, and ultimately affects balance, speed, and stability.

During heel strike, the lower extremities engage to absorb impact and prepare for the following phases of gait. This initial contact is typically characterized by the heel contacting the ground first, followed by the transfer of weight forward onto the foot. Understanding this phase is essential for assessing gait patterns and can help in the evaluation and design of orthotic and prosthetic devices.