Which timing describes the two bursts of hip adductor activity during gait?

Which timing describes the two bursts of hip adductor activity during gait?

• A. Midstance and terminal swing
• B. Just after toe off and at heel contact
• C. Heel contact and mid swing
• D. Early stance only

Answer: (B)

When walking, hip adductors fire in two brief bursts to help control movement in the frontal plane at key transition points. The first burst occurs as the leg moves from stance toward swing, occurring just after toe-off, helping to position the thigh toward midline as the limb begins its forward swing. The second burst happens when the foot makes contact with the ground (heel strike), aiding pelvis stability and alignment as weight is accepted by the stance leg. This double timing—just after toe-off and at heel contact—best matches how these muscles contribute during the gait cycle.

When walking, hip adductors fire in two brief bursts to help control movement in the frontal plane at key transition points. The first burst occurs as the leg moves from stance toward swing, occurring just after toe-off, helping to position the thigh toward midline as the limb begins its forward swing. The second burst happens when the foot makes contact with the ground (heel strike), aiding pelvis stability and alignment as weight is accepted by the stance leg. This double timing—just after toe-off and at heel contact—best matches how these muscles contribute during the gait cycle.