ABFAS Boards – Rearfoot and Forefoot Practice Test 2026: Your Comprehensive Study Guide to Exam Success!

Midstance is the portion of the stance phase where the body’s weight is directly over the stance leg as it moves forward. It begins when the opposite leg leaves the ground (toe-off) and continues until the stance leg’s heel rises, signaling the transition to push-off. During this interval the limb is in single-leg support, with the center of gravity over the foot, allowing the body to progress forward while the knee and ankle stabilize to bear weight. This definition distinguishes it from the earlier loading response (initial contact to foot flat) and from the moment of toe-off of the same limb that marks the end of midstance.