Apex Physical Therapy Can Help You Resolve Your Gait Disorders
Physical Therapy Can Empower You To stride confidently and embrace a more active lifestyle
Gait disorders refer to any condition or impairment that affects your ability to walk smoothly, efficiently, or safely. They can manifest various limitations and symptoms, including:
- Reduced mobility and walking speed
- Difficulty navigating uneven surfaces or stairs
- Increased risk of falls and injuries
- Compromised balance and coordination
- Altered posture and overall stability
Unfortunately, these challenges impact daily activities and can undermine your independence, confidence, and quality of life. Our highly trained therapists at Apex Physical Therapy employ a holistic approach to address the root causes of gait disorders. We will work closely with you to understand your unique needs, craft a personalized plan, and provide the support you need to rediscover the freedom of movement. Experience the life-changing benefits of our holistic approach to gait rehabilitation – book your consultation today!
Exploring Variations in Gait: Understanding Different Types of Gait Disorders
Gait disorders are relatively common and affect people of all ages, genders, and health statuses. However, they are more prevalent among older adults, individuals with neurological conditions, and those recovering from injury or surgery.
Apex Physical Therapy routinely treats various gait disorders, including altered walking patterns, unsteadiness, or difficulty coordinating movement. Some typical gait issues our physical therapists in Merrillville and Valparaiso, IN work with include the following:
Antalgic gait
A limping pattern caused by pain or discomfort during weight-bearing on the affected limb.
Parkinsonian gait
A shuffling gait with small steps, stooped posture, and reduced arm swing, often associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Hemiplegic gait
An irregular gait characterized by the affected leg swinging out and around, commonly seen in individuals who have experienced a stroke.
Ataxic gait
An unsteady, wide-based gait marked by poor coordination and balance, typically linked to cerebellar dysfunction.
Trendelenburg gait
This pattern, known as “hip dropping,” results from weakness or dysfunction in the hip abductor muscles.
What Are The Common Causes and Conditions Affecting Gait?
It is estimated that gait disorders affect approximately 24% of adults aged 60 years and older and nearly 35% of individuals aged 70 years or older, with over 60% of those aged 80 years or older experiencing difficulties.
People with chronic health conditions like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or arthritis, are more susceptible to developing gait abnormalities. Here are some common reasons why your gait could be affected:
- Musculoskeletal Issues: Conditions like arthritis, joint stiffness, or muscle weakness can alter walking patterns and contribute to gait disorders. If you have had recent surgery on your lower extremities you will often encounter changes to your gait.
- Neurological Disorders: Parkinson’s disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions can cause muscle weakness, spasticity, or impaired coordination, impacting gait.
- Vestibular Disorders: Inner ear problems, such as labyrinthitis or Meniere’s disease, can lead to balance issues and unsteady gait.
- Sensory Deficits: Peripheral neuropathy (i.e., diabetic or from cardiovascular disease) may result in a lack of proprioception, affecting balance and coordination during movement.
- Age-Related Decline: Natural aging processes can cause a decline in strength and flexibility and impaired vision or reduced balance, leading to gait disturbances.
Call us today and request an appointment with one of our specialists!
What to expect from your physical therapy sessions in Merrillville and Valparaiso, IN
Our experienced physical therapists will provide personalized, holistic care that targets the root causes of your gait disturbances, empowering you to move with ease, balance, and confidence. We are dedicated to helping you regain your mobility, balance, and confidence using proven treatments to ensure the best possible outcomes.
During your initial session, our physical therapists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your gait disorder. Specifically, they will assess the following:
Medical history
A thorough review of your medical history to better understand any underlying health conditions, previous injuries, or surgeries that may impact your gait.
Gait analysis
By observing and assessing your walking patterns, our skilled therapists can identify gait abnormalities and tailor a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Strength tests
These assessments help determine your muscle strength and identify any weaknesses contributing to your gait disorder.
Joint range of motion
A thorough examination of your joint flexibility and mobility lets our physical therapists pinpoint any restrictions impacting your gait.
Use of assistive devices
Furthermore, our physical therapists may recommend and train you to properly use assistive devices, such as canes or walkers, to support your recovery journey.
Apex Physical Therapy takes a holistic approach to treating gait disorders
We utilize treatments found in research studies to be the most effective.
Our physical therapists employ various treatment modalities when resolving gait issues, such as:
- Manual therapy techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension
- Therapeutic exercises to enhance strength, stability, and flexibility
- Gait retraining to correct biomechanical abnormalities and improve walking efficiency
- Balance and proprioceptive training to promote stability and body awareness
- Functional training to facilitate daily activities and improve the overall quality of life
At Apex Physical Therapy, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal function and well-being through a compassionate, holistic approach to physical therapy.
Don’t let gait disorders hold you back any longer.
The team of specialists at Apex Physical Therapy is eager to assist you in overcoming your gait disorder and reclaiming the joy of movement. Schedule your appointment with our expert physical therapists in Merrillville or Valparaiso, IN today and take the first step toward a healthier life!
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!