Gait disturbance

While many people have unique gaits (walking patterns), an abnormal gait could indicate an underlying musculoskeletal problem that benefits from medical intervention. At Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada in Las Vegas, board-certified orthopedic surgeon David Stewart, MD, diagnoses and treats gait disturbances in children and teenagers. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is a gait disturbance?

Your gait is the way you walk, or your walking pattern. Numerous medical conditions or injuries may contribute to an unusual gait (gait disturbance). While not always a cause for concern, gait abnormalities could negatively affect a child’s self-esteem, ability to play sports, or work at a job. 

Left untreated, they might lead to pain or injuries. At Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada, Dr. Stewart helps identify the causes of gait abnormalities in young patients and offers treatments to optimize walking patterns.

What are the symptoms of a gait disturbance?

Symptoms linked to gait disturbances may include:

• Shuffling or dragging your feet
• Stiff muscles or joints in the legs or hips
• Feeling off balance when walking
• Swaying from side to side when walking (waddling)
• Pain while walking
• Taking small steps
• Taking higher than normal steps
• Dropping the feet while stepping
• Walking with the neck and head bent toward the ground
• Limping
• Trouble with coordination 
• Difficulty supporting body weight

These symptoms vary depending on the root cause of a gait disturbance. They can be mild to severe and debilitating. 

What are the risk factors for a gait disturbance?

The following could increase the risk of having a gait disturbance:

• Underlying health condition
• Musculoskeletal injuries, including sports injuries
• Chronic diseases
• Conditions affecting the legs or feet
• Conditions affecting the brain and/or spinal cord
• Neurological problems
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Stiffness
• Family history of an abnormal gait
• Foot sores
• Balance problems
• Nerve damage
• Joint pain
• Clubfoot 
• Poor-fitting shoes
• Vision problems

Children and teenagers are less likely to have gait abnormalities than older adults, but it’s a common concern among people of all ages.

Complications that may develop from gait disturbances include falls, muscle weakness, pain, and reduced ability to walk or perform self-care. 

How is a gait disturbance diagnosed?

Dr. Stewart diagnoses gait disturbances in children and teenagers by reviewing their symptoms and medical history, completing physical and neurological exams, evaluating the way they walk, and ordering diagnostic tests. 

Your child might undergo X-rays, an ultrasound, a CT scan, an MRI, lab work, or other diagnostic tests to learn the best way to treat their condition and improve their gait. 

How is a gait disturbance treated?

Your child’s or teenager’s customized treatment for gait disturbances may include:

• Physical therapy 
• Medications for an underlying condition
• Rest, ice, compression, or elevation (RICE) for an injury
• Bracing
• Casting
• Splinting
• Assistive devices
• Manual manipulation 
• Physical therapy 
• Footwear changes
• Surgery

It’s helpful to stay active, eat a balanced diet, minimize stress, avoid smoking, and get plenty of sleep. 

Dr. Stewart follows up with your child over time to ensure their treatment is effective. He can make any necessary adjustments and answer any questions you might have along the way.

If your child has a gait disturbance, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Stewart at Pediatric Orthopedics of Nevada by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.