Gait disturbance

Gait Disturbance refers to a broad spectrum of disorders that result in abnormal walking patterns. These can be caused by a variety of conditions, including neurological disorders, musculoskeletal conditions, and psychiatric illnesses.

Definition

Gait is the pattern of how a person walks. Disturbances in gait are characterized by an inability to maintain a normal walking pattern. This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as limping, staggering, or shuffling.

Causes

Gait disturbances can be caused by a wide range of conditions. These include:

• Neurological disorders: Conditions such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, and multiple sclerosis can cause gait disturbances.
• Musculoskeletal conditions: Conditions that affect the bones, joints, or muscles, such as arthritis or hip fracture, can result in gait disturbances.
• Psychiatric illnesses: Certain psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia or depression, can also cause gait disturbances.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gait disturbances typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional tests, such as neuroimaging or electromyography, may be used to identify the underlying cause of the disturbance.

Treatment

Treatment for gait disturbances depends on the underlying cause. This may involve medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Parkinson's disease
• Stroke
• Multiple sclerosis
• Arthritis
• Hip fracture
• Schizophrenia
• Depression