Gait disorders
More mobility and independence again
Walking is the most natural way of locomotion and a matter of course for us. In fact, however, it requires complex processes in the nervous system and musculature. Our own perception of movement, our vestibular system in the inner ear, our eyes and the control of our muscles are crucial. If there are problems in one of these areas, gait disorders can occur. If you are affected by an unsteady gait and balance problems, a precise medical diagnosis is well worthwhile. The individual components of these issues can be treated very effectively once they have been identified. At Schoen Clinic, there is a high degree of expertise in diagnosing and treating gait disorders. We treat both mobile and severely affected patients.
Causes & symptoms
Causes: How gait disorders develop
There are diverse causes behind gait disorders. Disorders affecting the sensory organs (eyes, equilibrium organs in the inner ear, nerves on the feet) and various acute and chronic brain diseases (stroke, Parkinson’s ataxia, multiple sclerosis) are particularly significant in the field of neurology. A fear of falls often adds to uncertainty. Multiple causes often converge in advanced age, and these must be carefully differentiated.Symptoms: This is how one recognises a gait disorder
Gait disorders can differ widely: from slight hobbling to severe walking disorders that make walking impossible. Gait speed or gait pattern deviate considerably from the norm. You will notice that the gait pattern is no longer harmonious by the fact that:- walking no longer represents a fluid and symmetrical movement
- Your arms won’t swing anymore
- Your feet have no normal distance from each other
- Your stride length is shortened
- You lift the sole of your foot too little when walking.