crutch gait, a gait achieved by a person using crutches. The gait selected and learned is determined by the physical and functional abilities of the patient and the diagnosis. In a two-point gait, the patient uses each crutch with the opposing leg. In a three-point gait, weight is borne on the noninvolved leg, then on both crutches, and then on the noninvolved leg again. Weight-bearing on the involved leg initially is partial or prevented. A four-point gait gives stability but requires bearing weight on both legs. Each leg is used alternately with each crutch. The swing-to and swing-through gaits are often used by paraplegic patients with weight-supporting braces on the legs. Weight is borne on the supported legs. The crutches are placed one stride in front of the person, who then swings to that point or through the crutches to a spot in front of them.
