Which characteristic is typical of an equine gait?

An equine gait is characterized by high steps, which are associated with increased activity in the gastrocnemius muscle. This gait pattern resembles that of a horse, known for its highly elevated limb motion during ambulation. The gastrocnemius, being a major calf muscle, plays a pivotal role in plantarflexion and stabilizing the ankle during the high stepping motion.

Individuals exhibiting an equine gait typically demonstrate exaggerated lifting of the feet off the ground, which can be due to various underlying neurological or orthopedic conditions. This distinctive feature differentiates equine gait from other types of gait abnormalities, which may present with different patterns of movement or muscle activity. Therefore, recognizing the high steps and excessive gastrocnemius involvement is crucial for understanding and identifying this particular gait pattern in clinical practice.