The human gait pattern is responsible for our ability to maintain an upright posture and is defined as the way people walk and balance. Gait and balance training is extremely important in fall prevention. Balance is the ability of the body to quickly respond to safely right itself.
The components of the balance system include:
- The visual system – eyes and head
- The vestibular system – the inner ear
- The somatosensory system – the skin, muscles, joints and nerves
Balance training will improve steadiness and prevent falls, while gait training can improve your walking pattern, speed and endurance.