What does gait training involve?

Gait training involves teaching patients to walk properly. This aspect of physical therapy focuses on improving the way individuals walk, which can be impacted by various issues such as injury, surgery, neurological conditions, or chronic pain. The primary goal of gait training is to enhance stability, safety, and function while walking, which may involve correcting posture, stride length, and walking speed. This training is essential for helping patients regain mobility and independence in their daily activities.

While improving cardio endurance, balancing exercises, and strength training may all play significant roles in a comprehensive rehabilitation program, they do not specifically define gait training. Instead, these components can be supplementary aspects that support overall physical therapy goals but do not focus exclusively on the mechanics of walking.