Gait Problems - Symptoms - Musculoskeletal - What We Treat

/ What we treat / Musculoskeletal / Symptoms / Gait problems /

Gait problems are problems with a person’s walking. A person’s gait is unique to the individual. Problems can occur with gait for many reasons, some of which can be helped with the treatment of a Physiotherapist. Problems with a person’s gait can cause:

Increased risk of falls
Immobility
Decreased confidence
Reduced exercise tolerance
Biomechanical abnormalities causing stress to other structures

Different Types of abnormal Gait

There are many types of gait problems. Some of them are more common than others, some of the common types of gait problems are:

Trendelenburg gait
Foot drop
Ataxia
Scissor gait
Antalgic gait
Festinating gait
Steppage gait
Freezing gait
Stomping gait

Above: Specilaist musculoskeletal Physiotherapist assessing gait abnormalities

Causes of gait problems

There are many reasons why a person may have a problem with their gait. Some of the reasons that can lead to an abnormal gait are:

How can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy can offer treatments and advice on how to improve gait. This can be done through:

Balance rehabilitation
Walking aid provision
Encouragement and self-confidence building
Mobility rehabilitation
Muscle strengthening and control
Cuing devices

Physiotherapists are specialised in gait analysis and can provide a thorough assessment. This will involve a biomechanical analysis of each area of the body which is connected with how you walk. During the gait analysis, the physiotherapist will highlight what improvements could be made and work with you to establish an efficient gait.

Above: Gait re-education exercises supervised by experienced physiotherapist

For an individualised assessment, biomechanical gait analysis and treatment session by a qualified, experienced physiotherapist, please contact us or call 0330 088 7800 to arrange an appointment.

What Physiotherapy treatments can be expected for gait problems?

The physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk can offer a variety of treatments which could focus on improving a person’s gait. Some of the treatments are:

These treatments are dependent upon the outcome of the assessment and the physiotherapist’s judgement.

Summary

Problems with walking can debilitate an individual massively, decreasing their self-confidence and increasing their dependence upon other people. The physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk work with the client to achieve maximal independence, improving quality of life and self-esteem. Please contact us or call 0161 962 2690 to arrange an appointment.

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