hæltågange

Hæltågange is a Danish term used in biomechanics and physical therapy to describe the normal heel-to-toe gait pattern during level walking. In this pattern, the stance phase begins with heel contact, followed by loading and midstance, and culminates in propulsion as the forefoot and toes push off the ground. The term emphasizes the sequential contact of heel then toe that characterizes most everyday walking in adults with typical lower-limb function.

The etymology derives from hæl (heel), tå (toe), and gange (gait or walking). In English-language literature, the equivalent concept is commonly called the “heel-to-toe gait” or simply “heel-and-toe gait.” The Danish term may appear in clinical assessments, gait analyses, or biomechanics texts published in Danish.

Clinical relevance: Hæltågange is used to describe a standard gait pattern and is contrasted with alternative patterns such as forefoot striking, midfoot strike, or toe walking. Assessments may consider variables like stride length, stance duration, plantarflexion angle at push-off, and symmetry between limbs. Aberrations can indicate musculoskeletal or neurological issues and guide rehabilitation, orthotics, or footwear choices.

See also: Heel strike, Toe-off, gait analysis, biomechanics.