Benbevegelse

Benbevegelse, in Norwegian, denotes the movement of the leg and includes motions at the hip, knee, and ankle, as well as movements of the foot. The term combines ben (leg) and bevegelse (movement). It is a fundamental aspect of locomotion and posture.

Anatomy and biomechanics: The leg moves through three main joints—the hip, knee, and ankle—supported by a set of muscles that drive the motion. Core muscles include the gluteals and hip flexors (such as the iliopsoas), the quadriceps and hamstrings, and the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) plus foot intrinsic muscles. Movements include flexion and extension at the hip and knee, plantarflexion and dorsiflexion at the ankle, and, to varying degrees, abduction, adduction, and rotation. Coordination among joints and muscles allows smooth leg propulsion during movement.

Gait and movement patterns: Normal leg movement in walking involves a coordinated sequence of weight transfer, limb advancement, and foot clearance. The gait cycle comprises stance and swing phases, regulated by spinal circuits and supraspinal control, with sensory feedback refining timing and force. Variations in speed, efficiency, and stability arise from changes in muscle strength, joint range of motion, balance, and neuromuscular control.

Development and variation: Neonates display a stepping reflex that gradually gives way to voluntary walking during infancy. Leg movement varies with age, fitness, footwear, and underlying health conditions, which can alter gait pattern and energy use.

Clinical relevance: Impairments in benbevegelse occur after stroke, spinal cord injury, neuropathies, or myopathies. Assessment uses gait analysis and sometimes electromyography; treatment emphasizes physical therapy, strength and flexibility training, and, when needed, assistive devices such as canes or braces. Maintaining leg movement supports mobility, circulation, and independence.