Gait patterns after free flap reconstruction of the foot sole

Walking patterns after reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the sole of the foot with free flap were studied in seven patients. Measurements included walking technique, ground reaction forces and electromyographic (EMG) activity during the gait cycle. The results showed that only one patient walked symmetrically; the remaining six had many differences between the legs, the asymmetry usually being noticed when the subjects walked barefoot. The most common change was the shortening of the stance phase of the injured foot. The maximal vertical ground reaction force decreased in the braking phase and in the push-off phase. Quantitative differences in EMG between the legs were less than expected. The present study gives some support to the hypothesis that altering the pattern of gait may contribute to soft tissue stability after resurfacing of the sole.