Each person’s gait pattern is individual and is influenced by varied factors such as personality, mood, age, and general fitness. For walking to be done safely, especially in a dynamic environment, there needs to be a certain level of balance, strength, executive control, and intact cognition. When one or more of these factors are not functioning optimally it can lead to gait disorders. Gait disorders can lead to injuries and falls, loss of personal freedom, and will overall reduce one’s quality of life.
Gait disorders have many causes and can be caused by orthopedic, neurological, medical and/or psychological conditions. When observed, underlying causes of gait disorders should be investigated and treated in order to reduce fall risk and improve the patient’s safety and mobility. This should be done clinically taking into account all the varied possible causes of a gait dysfunction.
When not treated and taken care of, gait disorders may lead to a worse quality of life, loss of personal freedom, falls, and injuries. Certain gait disorders may lead to overuse injuries in certain joints, tendons, and/or muscles. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in improving and rehabilitating gait dysfunctions, which includes post-stroke and other illnesses, and post-surgical recovery.