Myopathic gait

Myopathic gait is a type of gait abnormality that is characterized by the patient walking with a waddling limp. This condition is often associated with myopathy, a disease of the muscle in which the muscle fibers do not function properly, resulting in muscular weakness. Myopathic gait is most commonly seen in patients with congenital muscular dystrophy and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy.

Causes

The primary cause of myopathic gait is myopathy. This can be due to a variety of conditions, including:

• Congenital muscular dystrophy: This is a group of muscular dystrophies that become apparent at birth or in infancy.
• Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy: This is a group of disorders that affect the voluntary muscles around the hips and shoulders.
• Metabolic diseases: These are conditions that affect the body's ability to metabolize, or break down, substances, leading to an accumulation of toxic substances that can damage the muscles.
• Inflammatory myopathies: These are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the muscles, leading to inflammation and muscle weakness.

Symptoms

The main symptom of myopathic gait is a waddling limp. Other symptoms can include:

• Muscle weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Muscle stiffness
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Difficulty lifting objects
• Difficulty swallowing (in severe cases)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of myopathic gait involves a thorough physical examination and a detailed medical history. Additional tests may include:

• Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of the muscles.
• Muscle biopsy: A small sample of muscle tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.
• Genetic testing: This can identify any genetic mutations that may be causing the myopathy.

Treatment

Treatment for myopathic gait focuses on managing the underlying condition causing the myopathy. This can include:

• Physical therapy: This can help improve muscle strength and flexibility.
• Occupational therapy: This can help improve the ability to perform daily activities.
• Medication: Certain medications can help manage symptoms of myopathy.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct deformities or to provide support to weakened muscles.

See also

• Gait abnormality
• Myopathy
• Congenital muscular dystrophy
• Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy

Myopathic gait Resources
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