Normal gait is dependent upon a coordinated series of events which moves the body through space with the minimal energy expenditure. Any neuromuscular abnormality which interferes with this pattern and results in loss of coordination will give rise to increased energy requirements. When energy requirements become too great, the patient becomes nonambulatory. This article presents the basic patterns present during normal bipedal gait and discusses the manner in which they are altered in the patient with cerebral palsy.
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