During pre-swing, the ankle is typically positioned in what range?

During pre-swing, the ankle is typically positioned in what range?

• A. 0-5° dorsiflexion
• B. 15-20° plantarflexion
• C. 5° plantarflexion
• D. 10° dorsiflexion

Answer: (B)

During pre-swing the ankle moves into plantarflexion as the foot prepares to toe off and the leg is propelled forward. The typical position is about 15–20 degrees of plantarflexion. This range allows a strong push-off, aided by the plantarflexor muscles, while the heel rises and the forefoot maintains contact to generate propulsion. Smaller plantarflexion, neutral, or dorsiflexed positions wouldn’t provide the same forward thrust, and would not match the toe-off mechanics of this phase.

During pre-swing the ankle moves into plantarflexion as the foot prepares to toe off and the leg is propelled forward. The typical position is about 15–20 degrees of plantarflexion. This range allows a strong push-off, aided by the plantarflexor muscles, while the heel rises and the forefoot maintains contact to generate propulsion. Smaller plantarflexion, neutral, or dorsiflexed positions wouldn’t provide the same forward thrust, and would not match the toe-off mechanics of this phase.