A number of conditions and diseases can cause walking problems. Common gait problems include walking with the toes pointed inward, limping, and walking. An abnormal gait can occur in childhood, when a person is learning to walk, or much later in life. Diseases and conditions that commonly cause walking problems include Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Problems can also arise after a person is injured or if he or she is taking certain medications.
A walking gait or myopathy is one of many common gait problems. Gait can be caused by muscular dystrophy or spinal atrophy. In some cases it is caused by a congenital dislocation of the hip. It occurs because a person is unable to balance their pelvis while walking, causing it to tilt toward the leg that is in the air. A duck step can appear in childhood or develop in adulthood.
Propulsive gait, also known as parkinsonian gait, causes a person to walk at a slight angle. The head and neck are bent forward in a propulsive gait. If the gait problem is caused by Parkinson's disease, a person's arms will not swing to the side while walking. Propulsive gait problems can also be caused by carbon monoxide, manganese, and certain drug poisonings.
Multiple sclerosis can also cause various gait problems, such as a jerky gait or a staggered gait. If a person has a jerky gait, his muscles usually contract, making his walk stiff. He can drag one leg. If he has a step step, his toes drag on the ground because the foot points down.
An ataxic or unbalanced gait can also be the result of multiple sclerosis. Someone with an ataxic gait may need a walker or other help to get around more easily. Ataxia can also be caused by drinking too much alcohol, a stroke, or certain medications.
Getting in and out are common gait problems among young children. Most children outgrow the problem without help. The abnormal gait will make a child more likely to trip and fall, but will not cause permanent damage or pain. Walking in or out can be caused by a number of conditions, including toe kicks, flat feet, or knock knees.
If a gait problem is caused by an injury, it will usually get better as the injury heals. Gait problems in children tend to go away as the child gets older. In some cases, physical therapy may be necessary if the abnormal gait is the result of chronic disease.