Tightness of hip extensors during gait affects which phase?

Tightness of the hip extensors during gait primarily affects the swing phase. During this phase, the leg is advanced forward to prepare for the next step. If the hip extensors are tight, this can limit the range of hip flexion that occurs, which may subsequently cause a decreased stride length and altered gait patterns. The ability to swing the leg forward effectively is crucial for maintaining smooth and efficient locomotion, and tight hip extensors can lead to compensatory movements, such as increased pelvic tilt or trunk lean, to accommodate for the reduced hip flexion.

In the context of the other phases of gait, while tightness in the hip extensors could theoretically have effects on various phases of walking, its most direct influence is seen during the swing phase where hip flexion is essential for the leg's forward movement. Therefore, understanding the role of hip extensors is crucial for addressing any gait abnormalities that arise from their tightness.