Final answer:
The modified 4 point gait pattern is a type of walking pattern used to assess a patient's balance and coordination. It involves walking normally for a distance and then turning and returning to the starting position. Different variations, such as tandem gait and walking on the heels or toes, test different aspects of balance and coordination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The modified 4 point gait pattern is a type of walking pattern used to test and assess a patient's balance and coordination. It involves the patient walking normally for a distance and then turning and returning to the starting position. The examiner observes for abnormal foot placement and arm movement.
In the modified 4 point gait pattern, the patient places the heel of one foot against the toe of the other foot and walks in a straight line in that manner. This variation, known as tandem gait, tests the patient's ability to maintain balance and coordination.
Additionally, the modified 4 point gait pattern can also involve walking only on the heels or only on the toes, which further challenges the patient's balance. These variations help assess different aspects of balance and coordination, including balance while walking in a straight line and balance while walking on the heels or toes.