Question

The following biomechanical alterations are supposed to keep the movement of body’s centre of mass during gait to a minimum as described by Saunders:
A. Pelvic rotation in the sagittal plane
B. Pelvic rotation in the transverse plane
C. Lateral pelvic tilt in the frontal plane
D. Lateral pelvic tilt in the sagittal plane
E. Knee flexion in stance phase
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A and D Only
• B. B, C and E Only
• C. B and C Only
• D. E Only

Hint:

Saunders determinants: Transverse rotation, pelvic tilt, knee flexion reduce COM movement

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:
Saunders described six determinants of gait that help minimize vertical and lateral displacement of the body’s centre of mass (COM), making walking energy efficient.

Step 1: Pelvic rotation in transverse plane.

• Pelvis rotates forward on swing side
• Reduces vertical displacement of COM Thus: \[ B: Correct \]

Step 2: Lateral pelvic tilt (frontal plane).

• Slight drop of pelvis on swing side
• Reduces rise of COM Thus: \[ C: Correct \]

Step 3: Knee flexion in stance phase.

• Flexion during loading response reduces peak height Thus: \[ E: Correct \]

Step 4: Incorrect options.

• A: Pelvic rotation is not in sagittal plane
• D: Pelvic tilt does not occur in sagittal plane

Step 5: Final conclusion.
\[ \boxed{\text{Correct answer = Option (2)}} \]