What does a non-weight bearing (NWB) gait pattern involve?

A non-weight bearing (NWB) gait pattern is characterized by the absence of any weight being placed on the affected limb. This means that the individual will deliberately avoid using the designated limb for support or propulsion during walking. The focus in NWB is on maintaining safety and preventing any load on the limb to allow for healing or to avoid exacerbating an injury.

In practical terms, when a person is instructed to follow a NWB protocol, they may use assistive devices such as crutches or a walker to ensure they move safely without relying on the injured limb. This method is crucial in various clinical scenarios, particularly in rehabilitation after surgery or injury, where stress on the limb must be completely avoided to facilitate recovery.

In contrast, the other options imply varying degrees of weight-bearing status that do not accurately define a NWB gait. For instance, weight on both limbs suggests a full weight-bearing status, whereas partial weight on a limb indicates that some load is still being placed on that limb, which contradicts the fundamental principle of non-weight bearing. The idea of weight being equally distributed also does not apply to a NWB gait, as it inherently involves complete offloading of one limb.