Difficulty walking

Difficulty walking, also known as gait disturbance, manifests in several ways. It can include unsteady or uneven walking patterns, dragging one foot, taking shorter steps, having a wider stance, frequent stumbling, muscle weakness in the legs, spasticity, and fatigue. This symptom is common in conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), arthritis, hip dysplasia, spinal stenosis, and peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes. Each condition affects gait differently, but all result in impaired balance and mobility. Recognizing this symptom early and seeking medical advice is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, using assistive devices like canes or walkers can help improve stability and safety.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology