Gait

Definition

Gait is a person's manner of walking, including stride length, cadence, arm swing, posture, and balance. Specific gait abnormalities suggest distinct neurologic or musculoskeletal conditions.

Common Abnormal Gaits

• Shuffling: Parkinson's disease, such as small steps, stooped posture.
• Spastic/scissor: Cerebral palsy or bilateral UMN lesion.
• Ataxic: Wide-based, unsteady; cerebellar disease.
• Antalgic: Short step on painful side to minimize weight-bearing.
• Hemiplegic: Circumduction of affected leg after stroke.
• Trendelenburg: Hip drop on opposite side with gluteus medius weakness.
• Steppage: Exaggerated hip flexion (foot drop).

Nursing Considerations

Assess gait for fall risk. Provide assistive devices (cane, walker), gait belt, safe environment. Refer to PT for gait training. Common intervention in elderly fall prevention.

NCLEX Relevance

Shuffling gait = Parkinson's. Ataxia = cerebellar. Fall risk is the nursing priority.