Physical Therapy Evaluation Tool (PEAT) 3 Practice Exam

A thorough gait assessment looks at how someone walks in real tasks, combining both the quality of movement and the measurable aspects of gait. It involves observing gait across multiple tasks, noting speed, step length, and whether left and right steps are symmetrical, while also analyzing both the stance and swing phases to understand timing and coordination. It should include evaluation of base of support and any deviations such as asymmetry or limp, and it should be tested under functional challenges like stairs or walking while performing another task to reveal deficits that only show up under higher demands. This broad approach captures how well the patient moves during daily activities, not just a single aspect of gait. If you limit assessment to one task, you miss important pieces like speed and symmetry; measuring only pace ignores timing and coordination; focusing solely on standing posture misses the dynamic aspects of walking.